Karl Stefanovic’s 'dangerous' dog ordered to wear muzzle after attack

Popular media identity Karl Stefanovic and his wife Jasmine have appeared court to defend their dog and avoid him being put down.

The German Shepard, named Chance the Yapper, “without provocation attacked a person, causing serious injury”, in April, court documents reportedly say.

Karl, 52, and Jasmine, 42, used canine lawyer Anne Greenway in their case against North Sydney Council.

Eight-year-old Chance narrowly avoided being branded a 'dangerous dog' at Hornsby Local Court on Thursday.

If he had, he could have been euthanised.

But Chance will still be subject to a four-year control order, whereby he will need to be muzzled and leashed when in public.

The Stefanovics must also hang a 'Warning Dog' sign at their Castlecrag home.

Further, Chance must complete 'behavioural or socialisation training' from a 'qualified expert' within six months.

A certificate of completion will need to be presented to the council.

Lastly, the court order mandates that Chance cannot be left in the care of anyone under the age of 18, and must be kept in a secure enclosure at home.

The possible penalty for breaching a dangerous dog order includes a $16,500 fine, the destruction of the dog and five years' jail.

The Sefanovics have owned Chance since 2018.

On her private Instagram, Jasmine describes herself as “Mummy to Harper” - their daughter - “and Chancey boy.”