COLUMBUS, Ohio -- A Columbus police officer is still recovering in the hospital after being attacked by his K9 partner over the weekend, forcing him to shoot the dog.

"This was a malicious attack; it's unheard of," Sgt. Mark Cartwright tells the Columbus Dispatch.

According to WLWT Channel 4, officer Brian Carter was working on training with his K9 partner of the past two years, Benzi, on Saturday when the dog refused the officer's command to go into a down position.

Carter was trying to correct Benzi with verbal commands when the dog attacked, police say. He suffered serious injuries to his arms and back.

Cartwright tells WLWT the attack was "more of a mauling" and that Carter was forced to shoot the dog. Carter reportedly tried to reach his Taser but had to use his firearm instead, shooting Benzi once.

The dog was later euthanized.

The Dispatch reports that Cartwright says Benzi had no history of aggression. The dog had been used in public demonstrations without incident.

Cartwright says Carter "is heartsick" that he had to shoot Benzi.

The incident remains under investigation.

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