Police confirmed today that they had traced the dog owner, and that a report would be sent to the procurator fiscal.

The dog is thought to have been an Alsatian.

A spokesperson for Royal Mail said the employee was badly shaken by the attack, but had commendably returned to work today.

She said, “A postwoman from Dunfermline divisional office was badly bitten by a dog on Saturday morning and taken to hospital for treatment.

“She was obviously quite distressed by what had happened.

“Royal Mail takes the safety of its employees very seriously, particularly the safety of the men and women who deliver mail.

“Dog attacks are one of the hazards experienced by front line staff, and our main aim is to prevent them.

“We look to our customers to co-operate and take responsibility for their dogs by keeping them under control.

“We work with the RSPCA and SSPCA to provide information packs and leaflets to distribute to pet owners in areas where we have had problems.

“In extreme cases, the Royal Mail has in the past stopped delivering mail where people have not been able to keep their dogs under control.

“Also, employees who have made complaints are given the option of taking legal advice in terms of considering making a case to prosecute. It is up to the individual.

“It is an idea to keep dogs indoors, if possible, when the post is due to be delivered.

“Also, as dogs tend to rush to the door when someone knocks, it is best to keep the dog in another room if you need to go to the door to sign for your mail.”