Ian Langley, 54, died after being mauled by a dog believed to have been an XL bully, which was shot by police at the scene.

A murder investigation into Mr Langley's death has been launched by Northumbria Police.

Residents in Shiney Row, where the incident took place, said they saw paramedics attending to the man's severely injured throat after Tuesday's attack.

A 44-year-old man was initially arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm - but following Mr Langley's death, the suspect was re-arrested on suspicion of murder.

Following the attack, police seized a second dog at the property as a precaution.

The suspect remains in police custody.

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One man local to the area said he frequently saw two XL bullies being walked in the vicinity.

He said: "I have seen the two dogs before, they are well known in the area, an older one and a younger one.

"They shot the older one in the yard."

Detective Chief Inspector Angela Hudson of Northumbria Police said: "Our thoughts remain with Ian's family and loved ones, as we continue to support them at this tragic time.

"Our investigation is ongoing, as we look to get answers for Ian's family around what has happened.

"I would urge any further witnesses or anyone with information to contact police as soon as possible.

"Your help could prove vital in this case.

"While our investigation is at an early stage, we do believe those involved were known to each other, and there is no wider risk to the public.

"I would also continue to ask people not to speculate about the incident online, including on social media, while enquiries continue."

The incident is the latest in a string of dog attacks in the UK.

On Monday morning, a toddler was bitten by a dog in Greenwich, while a man died last month after being attacked by two dogs in Staffordshire.

An attack last month on an 11-year-old girl in Birmingham, which left her with shoulder and arm injuries, led to the arrest of a 60-year-old man on suspicion of possessing a dog dangerously out of control.

It comes as the prime minister vowed to expand the list of banned dogs to include American XL bullies, prompting protests by owners.

Rishi Sunak has promised to ban the breed under the Dangerous Dogs Act by the end of the year.