POLICE have warned parents to keep a closer watch on children playing with dogs following an increase in attacks on youngsters.

Essex Police has been called to nine incidents where children were seriously injured this year – five of those involved children aged under six.

There have been four incidents since July 19 – the latest in Clacton on August 15.

A variety of breeds of dogs were involved, but officers warn dogs of any size can cause serious injuries when provoked, especially to babies or toddlers.

Insp Brad Dickel, of the Essex Police dog unit, said: “We are working closely with the RSPCA, councils and their dog wardens to promote responsible dog ownership across the county because we have found that serious incidents have increased.

“None of the attacks in Essex have been by prohibited dangerous dogs, although they do tend to involve larger and stronger breeds.

“Babies and young children should never be left unattended with dogs of any size. Even the smallest breeds could cause serious injury.”

Mr Dickell said there had been 52 reports of incidents involving dangerous dogs in Essex this year, compared with 50 for the whole of 2014.

Twelve illegal pit bulls were found in the county, although most were strays or abandoned dogs reported to police.

Mr Dickell added: “We cannot comment on the recent serious injury incidents as investigations are still continuing.

“We are extremely concerned about any injury to children or adults and all reports are carefully and thoroughly investigated.

“We believe prevention is better than cure and more responsible dog ownership and closer supervision of children could help to reduce some of the injuries.”