A 10-year-old girl killed by her family dog had a “close, loving relationship” with the animal prior to the “out of character” attack, police have said.

Police also confirmed the dog will be destroyed following the attack at the family’s home in Malton, North Yorkshire, on Friday afternoon.

Officers were called to the area by ambulance crews at 4.15pm on Friday.

A North Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: “Officers are conducting detailed inquiries covering all aspects of the incident.

“One of the lines of inquiry relates to the behaviour of the dog to help explain, as far as possible, why it attacked the girl.

“All indications so far suggest it was out of character, with the girl and dog having a close, loving relationship.”

A member of the public went to help the family and Yorkshire Ambulance Service attended, police said.

A family member secured the dog inside a car before emergency services arrived, they added.

The animal was later seized by officers, who took it to secure kennels.

The girl has not yet been named by police, and a post-mortem examination is taking place.

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“In the meantime, we again urge people not to speculate about the incident and to respect the family’s wish for privacy to grieve in peace,” the police force added in a statement.

“Our officers are continuing to support the family while enquiries continue.”