Dog owners in Bournemouth whose pets are out of control may soon be hit with harsher penalties.

A new byelaw for the town is being considered which would empower Police and Council Enforcement Officers to order owners to put a lead on their hound if it's causing alarm or distress, and increasing vigilance of dog fouling and exclusion areas.

Spot fines of fifty pounds would be likely, but there could be a maximum fine of a thousand for those not complying.