Police shoot dog dead as it attacks two dachshunds during arrest on Perth beach

Police have fatally shot a dog after it became aggressive towards two smaller dogs during an arrest at a beach north-west of Perth.

Officers were arresting the American Staffordshire terrier's owner, who was accused of stealing a $75,000 car from Victoria Park earlier in the day, when the dog attacked two dachshunds.

It was a confronting scene for locals at the popular coastal walk, with blood splattered on the bitumen.

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Officers were called to the Trigg Beach car park about 7pm on Tuesday over concerns for the welfare of Lavanna Lee Rule.

Rule was said to be driving erratically on the footpath in the allegedly stolen grey Toyota RAV4 with one tyre blown, liquor in hand and her American Staffordshire terrier behaving badly.

The 39-year-old allegedly fled down a beach track and ran into the ocean.

Police said her dog then became aggressive towards officers and pepper spray was used against it.

As police were carrying Rule, they say her dog launched at the dachshunds, which were being walked by their owner, forcing police to open fire.

"At this time, the dog approached and attacked two smaller dogs who were walking on a pathway with their owner," police said.

"When an officer's attempt to separate the dogs was unsuccessful, he fatally shot the larger dog to prevent further injury to those present."

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One of the dachshunds suffered serious injuries and was taken for emergency medical treatment.

Rule was charged with steal motor vehicle and drives or assumes control without consent, no authority to drive (cancelled), and breach of bail.

She faced court as the police investigation continues.