LANCASTER, Wis. — A police dog in southwestern Wisconsin has been euthanized after authorities say it attacked its handler, causing a significant arm injury.

The Wisconsin State Journal (http://bit.ly/1NUNoSn ) reports the attack against Grant County sheriff's deputy Jay Fitzgerald happened Tuesday. He had worked with the Belgian Malinois (MAL'-ehn-wah) named A-Rod for 3 ½ years.

Grant County Sheriff Nate Dreckman says Fitzgerald was treated and released for his injury, but won't go back to work for a while. Many stitches were needed to close the injury.

According to Dreckman, Fitzgerald's family was around when the attack happened, but they were not hurt.

Dreckman says euthanizing the dog was "a very difficult decision," and that officials had looked at alternatives. He says they're thankful for A-Rod's service.