A bull mastiff cross savagely attacked a smaller dog being walked by her owner, a court heard.

The owner of the mastiff, Paul Steadman, of Goldfinch Close, Horsham, admitted failing to keep a dangerous dog under control on December 30 at Crawley Magistrates Court.

Mark Bishop, prosecuting, said the mastiff, named Gus, was being exercised by a relative of Mr Steadman on a footpath at Nuthatch Way, Horsham.

At the same time Julie Walker was out with her pet dog Poppy.

Mr Bishop said: "Without warning Gus grabbed Poppy in his jaws.

"He clamped them on the back of her neck and resisted all efforts to make him let go. Mrs Walker ran screaming to her home.

"Her husband returned with her and, with the help of bystanders, managed to get the larger dog to release its hold.

"Poppy was badly injured in the attack suffering deep wounds which lacerated and severed muscles, blood vessels and nerves. She was in deep shock.

"Fortunately Poppy made an excellent recovery."

Geoff White, defending, said: "Gus is a family pet and is well behaved with Mr Steadman's own children. However, because of the instincts of his breed he can be aggressive towards other dogs."

Mr White said: "My client deeply regrets what happened and apologises for the injuries to Poppy."

Steadman was ordered to keep Gus under control and agreed the dog should be on a lead and muzzled while in public. He was also told to pay £50 costs.