The two owners of the dog that attacked a four-year-old boy in Merivale leaving him in hospital with facial injuries are yet to enter a plea after their first court appearance today.

Chef Anthony Hedgmen, 32, and a woman, who was granted interim name suppression, appeared in Tauranga Registrar's Court today facing one charge each of being the ‘owner of a dog which attacked a person causing serious injury'.

Anthony Hedgmen and a woman with interim name suppression appeared in Tauranga District Court today.

The pre-schooler was visiting the dog owners' Merivale home around midday on Friday, July 12 when the dog allegedly attacked the child as he went to pat it.

The child was rushed to Tauranga Hospital with facial injuries and later flown to Waikato Hospital by the TrustPower TECT rescue helicopter for specialist care.

The attack was reported to Tauranga City Council on the Saturday and the dog was impounded, where it will remain until the outcome of the prosecution.

The pair's lawyer, Victoria Brewer says no plea is being entered at this stage because more time is required for the case.

'We would like some more time for further disclosure and to enter into discussions with council to possibly resolve this matter.”

At the time of the incident Tauranga City Council animal services team leader Brent Lincoln said the charge under section 58 of the Dog Control Act could have serious ramifications for the owners.

If convicted the maximum penalty is a fine of up to $20,000 and up to three years in prison.

The pair are due back in court on August 29.