The shocking attack was captured on CCTV and shows Genevieve de Zeeuw walking her two dogs outside a row of shops in Cromer on Sydney's Northern Beaches when a bull terrier type dog rushed towards her. It clamped its jaws around her chihuahua before violently shaking it.

In a desperate bid to save her dog Genevieve fell on her back to the ground as she tried to wrestle the larger dog away.

The attack lasted for less than a minute and a young girl can be seen desperately trying to drag the larger dog away.

IN OTHER NEWS:

Following the attack, Genevieve posted to Facebook about the death of her dog which was called Chieko.

"Bestest friend I could ever ask for forever," she wrote".

My babey [sic] Chieko I can't believe your gone I love you to the moon a million times and back you will always be my babey [sic]. RIP Chieko #1 heart breaker. Wish we had more time. Where's my Chieko?"

A Northern Beaches Council spokesman said witnesses to the attack are being interviewed and CCTV footage is being reviewed.

He said the dog allegedly involved in the attack has been identified and it has now been satisfactorily secured.

Council CEO Ray Brownlee said they take attacks by dogs very seriously.

"They are extremely traumatic for all those involved and can cause serious and permanent injury to people or other animals," he said.

"Dog owners are legally responsible for their dog's actions, whether in an off-leash dog park, at your home, or on a lead.

"I encourage anyone who has witnessed a dog attack to report it on Council's hotline as soon as possible."

Council have a range of enforcement options available including imposing strict control restrictions on the dog and a maximum fine of $1760 for the responsible owner.