Why does someone have to confine their property (dog) because they call the police. If the dog is well trained and does not attack the police the police have no right to do anything to the dog. The article does not indicate the dog was doing anything to the police. This looks to me like an over reaction by the police and a destruction of private property.
The article does not state exactly what the dog was doing or where. Nor does it state what the local laws are concerning how dogs must be confined. I expressed no opinion as to whether the officer's actions were legal or reasonable. I did not say that someone "has to" confine their dog. I just think it is stupid not to. You have police responding to a report of a violent crime. They are going to be concerned for their own safety and acutely aware of potential threats. Why wouldn't you take your dog inside while you talk to the police?