Akita Attacks Leashed Dog in New Canaan

A New Canaan woman faces $167 in fines after her Akita traveled off-property on Indian Waters Drive Feb. 5 and attacked a leashed dog, police said.

The victim—see photos—who suffered several lacerations and other injuries, was a Karelian, according to Officer Mary Ann Kleinschmitt of the New Canaan Police Department Animal Control Unit.

The breed “looks like a short-haired border collie,” Kleinschmitt said. There are only two Karelians in town, both owned by the same individual.

By law, the owner of the aggressor dog in a situation like that is responsible for damage to the victim, she said.

The American Kennel Club describes Akitas as "large, powerful and alert." DogBreedInfo.com describes the Karelian Bear Dog as highly loyal and intelligent.

The incident occurred at 9:53 a.m., police said. The Akita’s owner specifically was cited for allowing a dog to roam and nuisance dog, according to Kleinschmitt. The owner must pay or plead by Feb. 22.