THE dog filmed being punched in the head in East Lancashire could be a banned breed.

The female bull terrier-type dog has been put into police kennels and is awaiting tests to see if it is a banned pit bull-type, police said.

If it does turn out to be on the banned list, a decision will be made on whether to put it down.

Police have confirmed a probe into the alleged attack on the dog remains ongoing and is being carried out by the RSPCA.

If tests show the dog is not a banned breed, it will be passed back to the RSPCA.

Meanwhile, a man arrested in connection with the incident, said not to be the dog’s owner, continues to help police with their inquiries.

Sgt Shaun Pearson, of Pendle police, said: “The dog is now in kennels which the police use.

“We’re not saying it’s a pit bull-type, but we are waiting for a dog liaison officer to assess the dog fully before it’s passed back to the RSPCA.

“We’re just making sure it’s not a banned breed.

“The alleged assault is still being investigated by the RSPCA.”

The “petrified” dog was caught on mobile phone footage cowering on the ground during the alleged attack in Hendon Street, Nelson, last Thursday.

The footage, released by the RSPCA, was filmed by a member of the public.