An XXL Bully owner in Wiltshire has been issued with a strict set of rules after his dog “caused fear” to other residents.

A Community Protection Notice (CPN) was issued to the pet owner, who lives in the North End area of Calne, after a joint visit by police officers and a Wiltshire Council Dog Warden on October 26.

This comes after the 31-year-old man’s XXL Bully dog was reportedly sighted by other members of the community roaming the local area unaccompanied, walking in the road, attempting to enter other residents’ homes, and causing fear to people, including a young child.

Police also received information that the man had breached a previous Community Protection Warning, requesting he take steps to appropriately control the large dog.

The notice has several conditions designed to “protect local residents”, including not allowing the dog to leave its home without direct supervision from an appropriate adult.

When away from the property, the dog must not be allowed off a fixed lead of two metres or less and must be under proper control at all times.

These conditions must be adhered to and a breach of a CPN can result in an individual being arrested and summonsed to court.

Police are also investigating whether any offences breaching the Dangerous Dog Act have been committed.  

PC Paul Croft, from the Chippenham Neighbourhood Police Team, said: "We have received numerous reports from persons within the area of North End, who expressed concerns regarding the lack of responsibility shown to the dog in question.

“We have been working closely with our partners within Wiltshire Council regarding this matter. We hope the further action taken last week reassures residents living in the area, and ensures this dog is receiving the standard of care it deserves.

“We are also investigating offences which may have been committed under the Dangerous Dog Act. These enquiries are ongoing at this stage.”

Anyone who witnesses a breach of this CPN has been urged to report it to police as a matter of urgency on 101.

CPNs can be issued to individuals aged 16 or over if police are satisfied that their conduct is having a “detrimental effect”, of a persistent or continuing nature, on the quality of life of others in the community.