Police in the north and north-east have been called to nearly 600 incidents involving dangerous dogs over the last four years.
Exclusive new figures show hundreds of incidents regarding animals that are out of control or aggressive have been recorded by police across Grampian and the Highlands since 2011.
And the figures, obtained by the Press and Journal, also show there have been 10 incidents where officers have traced banned dangerous breeds, which have been bred for fighting.
Earlier this week, the P&J revealed a talented north-east footballer Declan Milne, who plays for Montrose FC, faced months on the sidelines after he was savaged by two dogs in Aberdeen.
And on Wednesday, Peterhead woman Vickilee Galloway admitted ordering her Staffordshire Bull Terrier to attack a woman – seriously injuring her, and another man – during a drunken fight.
Last month, a dog walker was viciously attacked by a Rottweiler and a Staffy cross in Banchory while with his young daughter.
The figures show that, between 2011-15, in the Highlands and Islands division there were 235 offences recorded.
There were nearly 150 incidents in both Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen during the same period.
Meanwhile, in Moray, police dealt with 58 offences involving out of control dogs or breaches of conditions.
The force has said it works in partnerships with councils to address dangerous dog issues.
A spokeswoman said: “Police Scotland works closely with the local authority regarding dog control issues and anyone who wishes to report a crime should contact Police Scotland on 101.”
Last night, the Scottish SPCA has said the charity is committed to tackling illegal dog breeding.
A spokesman said: “The breeding, trading and owning of a dog banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 is not only extremely irresponsible and reckless, but it is also a criminal offence. Anyone caught doing so can expect to face prosecution and a court can and will order the destruction of the dog.
“We continue to receive reports from all areas of Scotland in relation to dog fighting, but it is an incredibly difficult issue to investigate due to the complex and underground nature of this crime
“We rely on members of the public contacting us as soon as they become aware of any incidents and giving us as much information as possible.
Anyone with information about dog fighting to contact the charity’s helpline on 03000 999 999.
