German Shepherd could be destroyed after biting owner’s friend in the face in Norwich attack

Norwich Magistrates' Court. Picture: Denise Bradley. Archant

A dog could be destroyed after biting his owner’s friend in the face, leaving her needing plastic surgery.

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German shepherd dog. Photo: Getty Images/iStockphoto German shepherd dog. Photo: Getty Images/iStockphoto

Andrew Roberts, 49, appeared at Norwich Magistrates Court where he admitted being a person in charge of a dog dangerously out of control causing injury.

The court heard a friend of Roberts’ had visited him at his property on George Pope Road on January 29 this year.

The victim had put her hand on the defendant’s leg during the visit which prompted his dog Ziggy, a German Shepherd, to jump up and bite the woman on her face.

She sustained an injury to her face and lip and is awaiting plastic surgery for the injuries caused.

The court heard the victim did not initially want to make a complaint but has done so in case the dog attacks someone else.

Roberts was arrested and in interview said he thought his dog was trying to protect him.

He also told police the dog had bitten someone once before.

Damien Moore, appearing for Roberts on Friday (June 15), said his client felt “absolutely dreadful” about what happened as the victim was a friend of his.

Mr Moore said his client believed the dog was protecting him.

He said: “The victim was under the influence of alcohol at the time. She was quite loud.”

Mr Moore said she made a movement towards the defendant which the dog has reacted to.

He said the dog had previously given a police dog handler a “little nip” when he was a puppy.

The case was adjourned until July 6 for reports.

It is also expected the issue of whether the dog will be destroyed will be considered at the next hearing.