A woman walking her dog was allegedly attacked by another pet owner after she asked her to put her German shepherd on a lead.

The victim, who was out with her newly-adopted dog, was reportedly punched and kicked by the stranger in fields near Severus Street, Keynsham, Somerset, at around 1.10pm on Monday.

Images and videos of the alleged attack were posted online, which has prompted Avon and Somerset Police to launch an investigation.

The force said in a statement: “We have identified two people we’re keen to talk to and enquiries into the incident are ongoing.

"As part of our investigation officers will be reviewing CCTV from the area while neighbourhood officers will also be carrying out reassurance patrols."

Anyone with information is asked to call 101, quoting reference number 5222109359, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

There is no blanket law that requires dogs to be kept on a lead in all public spaces in the UK, however dog’s should be kept ‘under control’ – such as paying attention to voice commands.

Local authorities may also have Public Spaces Protection Orders in place – meaning leads should be used in places such as children’s play areas or on sports fields.