The child, who police have named as Jack Lis, died at the scene after police and paramedics were called to the address in Caerphilly, south Wales, at 3.55pm. The boy's grief-stricken family today shared their sadness online.

       Emma Whitfield, the boy's mum, posted on Facebook: "With so much heart break and before close friends and family see his name in the news, I have to announce our beautiful boy Jack was taken so tragically yesterday.

       "It was not our dog nor did it happen at our family home. He was out to play.

       "We love you so much our sweet sweet boy."

       The dog was destroyed by firearms officers and no other animals were involved in the attack, Wales Online reports.

       Tributes and flowers for Jack have been left at the scene.

       Chief Superintendent Mark Hobrough said: “My condolences and thoughts are with Jack’s family, friends, school friends and everyone affected by this within the community.

       “We can confirm that the attack did not happen in the house owned by Jack’s family, but inside another property on a nearby street.

       “Officers are continuing to make further enquiries at this time and will remain at the scene as the investigation progresses."

       He added: "There will be a significant presence of officers in this area of Caerphilly as our enquiries continue.

       "Please do not be alarmed."

       There is still a large police presence at the house today and several properties were cordoned off as officers controlled access to the scene.