Large salties like this one, photographed on the Lower Ord recently, pose a threat to humans and other animals.

A crocodile attack on a medium-sized dog, near the Yacht Club in Kununurra, has prompted a warning.

The dog was swimming in Lake Kununurra in the early evening when the attack occurred.

It required numerous stitches, but survived.

It is thought the attack was by a large freshwater crocodile.

The Department of Conservation and Land Management (CALM) issued a statement last week, which advised that with the onset of the wet season estuarine crocodiles or 'salties' were becoming more active.

CALM district wildlife officer Brad Rushforth said: "Crocodiles can become more aggressive at this time, which coincides with the commencement of the breeding season.

"As always, crocodiles should be given a very wide berth.

"Approaching crocodiles is a foolhardy practice and puts people and crocodiles at risk.

"The old adage of 'let sleeping dogs lie' should be applied here," he said.

CALM has recently replaced and erected new crocodile warning signs in various locations, where people fish and launch boats.

"It should be noted however that not all waterways are signposted and the absence of a sign does not necessarily mean the absence of crocodiles," Brad said.

"Please seek credible advice if you are unsure."

Large estuarine crocodiles have the potential to kill humans; the most recent example in the NT this year.

"With this in mind it is essential that people recreating in crocodile habitat take a commonsense approach with regard to their activities in and around the water," Brad warned.

"Also presenting a danger are large freshwater crocodiles, which have been known to attack dogs and other pets encroaching on their territory in and around Lake Kununurra.

"Pet owners are encouraged to be vigilant."

Further advice on crocodiles can be obtained from CALM staff either in Kununurra on 9168 4200 or Broome on 9192 1036.