Man killed by his own dog in attack at home

A man aged 66 has died after being attacked by his own dog at a home in what police have described as a "very rare" and "tragic" incident in Tasmania.

Police were called to a house at Allens Rivulet, a rural area near Hobart, at 10.40pm on Sunday.

Police said the dog attacked the man and a woman aged 64.

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The man died after suffering serious injuries to his lower legs.

The woman was rushed to hospital, where she is in a stable condition.

Inspector Colin Riley from Tasmania Police said the man was pronounced dead at the house.

"The woman was transported to the Royal Hobart Hospital with serious injuries to her lower limbs," Riley said.

"Our thoughts are with the man's loved ones at this difficult time."

He added it was a "very rare" incident.

"Obviously this is a family that had a loved pet and unfortunately that animal has turned on them and it's had tragic outcomes," Riley said.

A neighbour called the police after hearing a commotion and five police officers, an ambulance crew and two local Kingborough Council animal control officers went to the property.

Police said they would investigate what happened before the dog attacked but would not identify the breed.

There are two other dogs at the home, police said.

According to the council, at least one is of the same breed.

The dog was euthanised at the scene by an animal management officer.

Kingborough Council General Manager Gary Arnold said it was "the most tragic incident" to have happened during his 10 years there.

He said the council officers involved are "a bit shaken".

Arnold said the dog did not appear to be registered with the council, which owners are encouraged to do, he said.

Police said a report would be prepared for the coroner.