A MAN who was savagely mauled by his dog is due to undergo surgery for his horrific injuries today.

The dog was destroyed soon after the attack which took place in the victim's garden in Yewdale Gardens, Breightmet yesterday afternoon.

The man, aged 50, was rushed to hospital in a critical condition.

The breed of the dog is not known, but is thought to be a bull terrier-type.

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said: "The dog was destroyed before its breed could be determined. The owner is having surgery today for his injuries."

Armed police were called to the flat just before 1.30pm after a shocked neighbour raised the alarm after hearing screaming coming from the garden.

The dog turned on its owner leaving him with life-changing injuries to his face and arm.

The police spokesman said:"Officers were called to reports a man was being attacked by a dog.

"NWAS and an air ambulance attended an a 50-year-old man was taken to hospital with life-changing injuries to his arms, legs and face.

"It is believed it is the man's own dog."

The man's neighbours are in a state of shock following the attack.

Sammy-Lin Lancelot told The Bolton News how her partner threw a tennis ball at the dog, and only then did it let go of its owner.

She then covered him with blankets and the couple kept him talking until help arrived.

A large cordon was in place at the time of the incident.