Over the past three years, an average of 11 dog attacks have been reported within Hepburn Shire between May and August.

This year alone, 12 attacks have already been reported.

Council compliance co-ordinator Eric Wright said officers were dealing with a number of issues relating to dogs and he strongly advised pet owners to be more vigilant or face fines.

"We seem to be experiencing a substantial number of dog-related problems across the shire and particularly dog attacks on sheep seem to be on the increase," Mr Wright said.

"We are also noticing an increase in irresponsible pet ownership such as dogs not being confined, being walked unrestrained, not registered and residents keeping above the maximum number of dogs permitted.

"These problems unfairly affect others who live in the shire and often create a danger to residents and motorists and can be of great cost to farmers."

He said the attacks are increasingly on livestock, not just humans.

"There is a perception that dog attacks relate to dogs attacking people and this may well be the case in metropolitan councils.

"However, whilst an attack on people in country towns is still concerning, the reality is that the attacks are more often on livestock.

"In fact, dog owners in country areas must be twice as vigilant to ensure that their dogs are adequately restrained due to livestock farming often being carried out adjacent to residential areas."

To report a dog attack, call 5348 1633.