A young child is in hospital after being 'attacked by a dog' in Stockton, County Durham.

A young child, reportedly between the ages of two and three, was hospitalized following a dog attack in Hardwick, Stockton-On-Tees, this afternoon. The child sustained non-life-threatening injuries to their head and arm and was taken to the University Hospital of North Tees after the incident, which occurred on Chopwell Close. Emergency services, including multiple police vehicles, were dispatched to the scene shortly after the incident was reported around 12:33 PM. A Cleveland Police spokesperson confirmed that the dog was safely secured without harm to the animal and has since been taken to specialist kennels for evaluation. Witnesses described the dog as a Pitbull-cross, although this has not been officially confirmed by police. One passerby noted disturbing details, stating that the dog had bitten the child's arm and scalp, emphasizing the chaotic scene marked by a heavy emergency response. Authorities are conducting an investigation and have urged anyone with additional information to come forward by contacting Cleveland Police. As police remain at the scene, the incident has raised significant concern among the local community regarding dog safety and regulations, particularly surrounding breeds like Pitbulls, which often carry a stigma due to their historical classification as dangerous dogs. This incident parallels a broader conversation on dog attacks in the UK, emphasizing the need for cautious ownership and public safety measures regarding potentially aggressive breeds. There is a growing awareness of the responsibilities that come with dog ownership, especially in households where children are present. Local officials have not only been called to this scene but may also need to consider preventative measures as investigations proceed. Furthermore, the community's reaction to this incident will likely lead to discussions around breed-specific legislation and other regulations aimed at preventing such tragedies in the future.