A DOG owner has been left shaken after a man tried to steal her puppy.

Police are investigating the incident in a Hampshire town, which left the dog with injuries, after the man tried to take its lead by force.

The female victim was walking her three-month-old Staffordshire bull terrier when the man tried to grab the lead in what police believe was an attempt to take the dog from her.

This resulted in the dog sustaining injuries to its hind legs and rear pads.

Eventually the man let go of the lead and walked away.

He is described as white, 5ft 7in tall, 30 years old, very skinny, with a gaunt face and wearing dark blue joggers or jeans, a cream or beige hooded top and trainers.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident, in Magpie Walk, Waterlooville, on Thursday at around 6.30pm.

Police Constable Jamie Barron said: “Were you in the Magpie Walk area round this time? Did you see or hear anything? You may be able to assist us with this investigation.

“We think this man is local. Maybe you recognise the description?

“This was a horrible thing to put the owner and the dog through.”

Any with information is asked to call police on 101.