A city man is pleading with folk not to tar all rottweilers with the same brush when it comes to owning the divisive breed.

It comes after a labrador was left with a gaping wound in its leg after it was attacked by a "stocky Rottweiler-sized" dog in Fitzmaurice Park, Thorpe St Andrew on March 24.

But one man wants people to try and shine a light on the effects it has on responsible owners.

Norwich Evening News: Reggie is an 11-year-old Rottweiler who lives with Gabriel and is docile and friendlyReggie is an 11-year-old Rottweiler who lives with Gabriel and is docile and friendly (Image: Gabriel Evbota)

Gabriel Evbota lives in Thorpe and regularly walks his 11-month-old rottweiler Reggie around Fitzmaurice Park.

The 57-year-old said: "Rottweilers already have a bad rep and unfortunately the stories going around have had an adverse effect on my walks with Reggie.

"Since the incident people are much more wary and will even run away from me and my dog.

"Others have approached me about the incidents and it's giving the rottweiler breed a bad name - those who don't know us are worried.

READ MORE: Oscar the labrador mauled by Staffie in NR3 area of Norwich

Norwich Evening News: Mr Evbota said people just need to hear 'Rottweiler-sized' and they just focus on that, whether the dog is that breed or notMr Evbota said people just need to hear 'Rottweiler-sized' and they just focus on that, whether the dog is that breed or not (Image: Gabriel Evbota)

"It's not the breed that's to blame but unfortunately people focus on that specifically - unfairly - and it tarnishes everyone with the same brush."

The attack on Molly left her with damage so bad her owner, Tina Colney, said: "She'll never be the same again."

But Mr Evbota added: "Reggie was brought up with two labradors so he's very docile and friendly towards others.

READ MORE: Fitzmaurice Park attack victim still in pain and discomfort

Norwich Evening News: Mr Evbota said people will actually run away from me and Reggie if they see us out walkingMr Evbota said people will actually run away from me and Reggie if they see us out walking (Image: Gabriel Evbota)

"Even if someone says 'rottweiler size' that's what people will focus on and just assume that's the breed it was - even if it isn't.

"I take Reggie to the pub and to my office all the time.

"Other Rottweiler owners have told me about having a similar issue since the incident and some even saying they've been asked if their dog was involved in the attack."