A warning from Auckland Council about children and dangerous dogs.

Auckland man Orlando Shepard has been sentenced to community service - instead of jail time - after his dog brutally mauled Mr Shepard's four-year-old son.

His son was seriously injured and spent 10 days in intensive care.

Auckland Council wanted Shepard behind bars and are considering the impact of the verdict.

Head of Animal Management Tracey Moore told Mike Hosking the outcome serves as a reminder about dog safety.

"Not just strange dogs or dogs you see roaming in the street that attack people - all too frequently children are attacked by dogs in their own home."

LISTEN ABOVE AS TRACY MOORE SPEAKS WITH MIKE HOSKING