They say cats have nine lives but it appears one lucky dog will be fine with just one.

Lonca, a two-year-old German shepherd with Toronto police's canine unit, was attacked by a man with a machete Tuesday during a bust of an alleged gambling ring in North York. He was cut in the neck and rushed to an animal emergency centre.

A day later, the pooch appears poised to make a full recovery and looks to be feeling more like himself again.

"The police dog received five stitches to its upper lip and two staples to its paw," said Staff Sgt. James Hung.

The dogs are assigned to each handler and they take them home every night and care for them on a daily basis. - Toronto police Staff Sgt. James Hung

The incident came as a shock to the entire police canine unit, the staff sergeant told CBC News.

"The dogs are assigned to each handler and they take them home every night and care for them on a daily basis," Hung explained, adding when one is injured, that bond between man and dog is only strengthened.

The dog's human companion said the animal is his best partner and friend. Lonca is expected to return to the force next week.

Three men in their 50s have been charged in connection with the alleged gambling ring. One man also faces charges of possession of a dangerous weapon and injuring an animal.

Hung said the man accused of injuring Lonca could go to prison for five years, if he's convicted.