A young child has been rushed to hospital after being attacked by a dog in North Canterbury.

A police spokesperson said they were notified of the dog attacking a young child who suffered moderate injuries to the face and shoulder in Waimakariri around 5:35pm.

They were taken to Christchurch hospital by ambulance.

It’s understood the dog was a bullmastiff.

The attack has been referred to the Waimakariri District Council the police spokesperson said.