A local man in his 30s was walking his dog in the fields between Tricketts Cross and Bournemouth Airport between 3pm and 3.30pm on Tuesday 12 October, when he spotted two men walking toward him alongside two Rottweilers that were off lead.

As the men approached the victim, they racially abused him and demanded to know whether his dog was a fighter.

One of the Rottweilers is then reported to have attacked the victim’s dog by biting its neck. The victim attempted to separate the dogs but was bitten on both knees causing puncture wounds. He was also bitten on the arm; however the dog did not break the skin because he was wearing a thick coat.

The victim prised the dog’s mouth open to release its grip before the offenders whistled for their dogs to return. His dog was left bleeding heavily and was taken to the vets for treatment.

The first suspect is described as white, in his 30s, five feet eight inches tall, of stocky build and with dark brown greasy hair. He had bright blue eyes and wore a chequered white and blue shirt. The second suspect wore green clothing and combat shorts.

The Rottweilers are described as black with long tails. One had a scar above its eyes.

Police Constable Vicky Sims, of East Dorset police, said: “This was an entirely unprovoked attack on a member of our community, and it has left him extremely shaken and upset.

“I am appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident or knows the identity of the suspects to please get in touch so we can continue with our investigations.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101 quoting occurrence number 55210164789. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.