The baby bitten by its grandparent’s dog in Diemen on Tuesday afternoon died in hospital the following day, police have confirmed.

The child was taken to hospital by helicopter but could not be saved. ‘It’s a very impactful and emotional case,’ police told RTL Nieuws.

The dog was put down on the same day, after consultation with the owners, a vet and the public prosecution department. It is not known if the dog is among the 21 breeds, cross breeds and lookalikes that are included on the high-risk list

The economic affairs ministry is working on a breeding and import ban for dogs it considers at a high risk of aggressive behaviour. Every local council also has a register of complaints about dangerous dogs and can impose measures such as muzzling the dog and keeping it on a short lead. Dog owners are also given information about how to handle their dog.

Recent figures are not available but it is thought some 150,000 people are bitten every year, with children more at risk than adults.

Once the police conclude their investigation it will become clear it the grandparents in the case will be prosecuted.