The council's development services director Angela Murphy said dog attacks were occurring too regularly and the council was increasing its focusing on enforcing local laws - particularly the law that states all dogs must be on a leash in public places.

The fine for not having a dog on a leash is $241.

Ms Murphy's comments come in the wake of last week's court hearing.

"Council is proactive and works with all affected parties involved in (dog attacks)," she said.

"While court is often a last resort, Horsham Rural City Council has prosecuted on several local laws matters this year - not just dog attacks."

Ms Murphy said the court did not issue any destruction orders on the Alaskan malamute cross.

She said the short-haired pointer had recovered well "to lead a fulfilling life".

Ms Murphy reminded people that the council managed five off-leash dog parks in Horsham - at Weir Park on Barnes Boulevard, Langlands Park on Houston Street, Lions Park on Plant Ave, Racecourse Reserve on Natimuk Road and Jenkinson Reserve on Baillie Street.

The Baillie Street dog park is unfenced.

"These areas have been clearly marked as off-leash areas with signage and equipped with animal waste bags and bins," Ms Murphy said.

"Remember off-leash areas are public areas, too. So owners need to ensure their dogs don't bail up other people or animals.

"People need to make certain their dogs understand verbal commands and come back when called."

EARLIER: A DOG owner will pay more than $1000 after her Alaskan malamute cross attacked a short-haired pointer near the Wimmera River in Horsham last year.

Horsham Rural City Council successfully prosecuted the dog owner in the Horsham Magistrates' Court last week.

The court ordered the woman, 46, pay fines and costs totalling $800 plus compensation for veterinary treatment and the council's legal fees.

"Responsible pet ownership is extremely important to council and our community," Mayor Mark Radford said.

"Keeping your dog on a lead in public places is not only the responsible thing to do - it's also a legal requirement under the Domestic Animal Act.

"This prosecution is also a reminder to everyone that there are legal consequences if your dog attacks another person or animal."

The attack occurred last year on the walking track along the Wimmera River near the Horsham Rowing Club.

The court heard the offending dog, an Alaskan malamute cross, charged the nearby man's dog and began to attack the dog on lead.

The man's dog was taken to a veterinary clinic suffering punctures to its front left leg.

The council's regulatory services manager Lauren Coman reminded all pet owners that dogs were legally required to be kept safe - on a lead in public places and with adequate fencing at home.

"Pets are an important part of many people's lives, but pet ownership comes with important responsibilities and legal obligations," Ms Coman said.

"The safety of the Wimmera community is a priority for council, and pet owners are reminded to be aware of their obligations under the law.

"This includes microchipping and registering your dogs and cats with Council so they can be safely returned to you if they are lost."

Any dog or cat three months of age or over must be registered with the local council in which the pet is kept.