Police appeal after boy injured by dog in Thorplands, Northampton

Four-year-old’s injuries described as minor after incident in play area

Author: Katy WhitePublished 7th Jan 2026

Police are seeking information after a four-year-old boy was injured by a loose dog in Thorplands, Northampton.

The incident happened on Friday, 19th December, between 5pm and 6pm in the play area near East Bank.

According to officers, a German Shepherd dog ran out from a wooded area and approached the boy, who was with his parent and sibling, before biting his arm.

The boy’s thick coat prevented the dog from puncturing his skin, and he sustained scratches and bruising as a result.

Police believe the dog was unaccompanied at the time of the incident and are urging its owner to come forward.

Northamptonshire Police are also asking witnesses or anyone who owns a German Shepherd and suspects their pet may have been involved to contact them.

People can reach Northamptonshire Police by dialling 101, quoting incident number 25000742281.

Alternatively, information can be submitted anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.northants.police.uk/RO and Giving information | Crimestoppers

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