The owner of a much-loved family dog stabbed to death in a Melbourne backyard has described the attack as “inhumane and disgusting”.

Vera Movakovrc was getting ready for work about 7am today when she noticed a pool of blood on the back doorstep of her Fifth Avenue home in Dandenong.

Vuk's owner spoke to 9NEWS about his devastating death. (9NEWS)

“I followed it to see where it was coming from,” Ms Movakovrc told 9NEWS.

At the end of the trail, she made a horrific discovery. Her Maltese-cross-Jack Russell, Vuk, was covered in blood.

“There was so much blood,” she said.

Ms Movakovrc initially thought Vuk had been hit by a car, but when she went to take the dog to the vet in her car, she noticed the vehicle’s tyres had been slashed and “put two and two together”.

Vuk the dog had to be put down after being found with serious stab wounds. (Victoria Police)

“I think someone was trying to get to the car and Vuk was being protective.”

Veterinarians were finally able to assess Vuk two hours later, but by then it was too late for the 11-year-old; he had to be put down as a result of the injuries.

Senior Constable Alison Johnson said it was unclear whether the stabbing was targeted, but detectives were treating the attack as isolated.

“I haven’t seen an incident like this before, it’s horrible,” Snr Const Johnson said this afternoon.

“We’re appealing for any witnesses.”

The 11-year-old dog was found covered in blood. (9NEWS)

Ms Movakovrc said her family is devastated by Vuk’s brutal death.

“He’s always been here, he’s grown up with both my daughters and has never done harm to anyone.

“To go outside and see he’s not there, it’s a loss.”

Investigations are ongoing.

* Victoria Police have clarified the dog's name was Vuk, after an earlier release stated its name was 'Buk'.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000