Former Premier League winger Jermaine Pennant required more than 50 stitches and hospital treatment following a vicious dog attack in north London on Friday, October 23, 2026. The 43-year-old former Arsenal and Liverpool star sustained four deep bite wounds to his right leg when a German Shepherd lunged at him while he was walking his American Akita, King. Both dogs were off their leads at the time. His girlfriend, Mimmi Montgomery, called an Uber to transport him to Accident and Emergency, where he spent Friday night receiving treatment. Despite the severity of the incident, Pennant chose not to report the matter to the police, stating, It’s just one of those things.
The confrontation began when the German Shepherd approached and targeted King. When Pennant stepped between the two animals to shield his pet, the attacking dog shifted its focus, latching onto the former footballer’s leg and dragging him to the ground. Pennant described experiencing immense pressure during the struggle, noting that the animal remained locked onto his limb for at least five seconds.
Rescue and Medical Treatment
As Pennant lay pinned, King intervened in the fight, successfully forcing the German Shepherd off his owner. King sustained only a minor nip on his leg during the altercation.
🐶 Liverpool'un eski yıldızlarından Jermaine Pennant, köpeğini gezdirdiği sırada başka bir köpeğin saldırısına uğradı. 43 yaşındaki eski futbolcunun bacağına 50 dikiş atıldı. pic.twitter.com/I4Ry9tp0L4
Doctors informed Pennant that one of the larger wounds on his right shin may require plastic surgery.
Praise for His Canine Companion
In the aftermath of the attack, Pennant took to Instagram to share a photograph of himself alongside King, whom he credited with saving his life. He recounted how panic initially set in when he spotted blood covering King, only to realize the fluid belonged to him rather than his pet.
My hero still protecting me and trying to look after me, KING you’re a legend love you, man’s best friend, thanks for taking care of us both,
Pennant wrote in an emotional caption.
The incident has drawn renewed attention to the rising volume of out-of-control dog attacks across the United Kingdom. Figures indicate that authorities recorded approximately 29,400 cases of out-of-control dog attacks last year, marking an 83 per cent increase compared to the 16,040 incidents logged in 2020.
Football Career and Background
A career highlight came in 2007 when he played in the UEFA Champions League Final with Liverpool, and he later worked as a football pundit for talkSPORT.
