A man reportedly released his dog on a Long Beach police officer, resulting in the dog being shot, officials said Saturday.

The condition of the dog was unclear, but authorities said it was taken to an animal hospital for treatment. Police were investigating a possible sexual assault near Pacific Coast Highway and the San Gabriel River bed shortly before 10:30 p.m. Friday, according to a news release.

A man reported a 40-year-old woman from Seal Beach had been sexually assaulted, officials said.

When he saw the alleged attacker, he pointed him out to an officer.

The man, who had a large pit bull, noticed the officer, said something to the dog and then released it.

The dog began approaching the officer.

After the officer ordered the owner to recall his dog numerous times and the man allegedly refused, the officer shot the dog, officials said. The dog retreated, and its owner was arrested.

Animal Care Services was called and the dog was taken to a local animal hospital for treatment.

The man, a 38-year-old Long Beach resident, was booked into Long Beach Jail for a sexual related offense and is being held on $100,000 bail.