MEDFORD — A dangerous-dog law in Medford might feature a two-pronged approach that would deal both with animals that turn vicious and their irresponsible owners.

At its meeting today, the City Council, which has received about 100 emails and many phone calls on the issue, will give direction to the Police Advisory Committee.

The council plans to ask the committee to devise a graduated enforcement plan to deal with residents and dogs who are repeat offenders.

The council also wants to devise a law that offers proactive means to address a dangerous dog.

Last week, councilors learned that 89 cases of dog bites on other animals or humans had been reported in the past three years.

Councilors received graphic photos showing dogs that had been attacked.

Councilor Daniel Bunn said the city will likely ask the Police Advisory Committee to hold public hearings and come up with a recommendation on dealing with dangerous dogs.

Bunn said the council would like a law that offers a graduated approach to dealing with the owners of problem dogs.

He said he might suggest that a pit-bull breeder or owner be added to the committee for the purpose of getting a dog owner’s perspective.

The council would also like a recommendation on laws discussed in other communities, such as bans on specific breeds, mandatory sterilization and other measures, such as cages.

So far, a breed-specific ban has been a problematic idea for council.

Bunn, who owns a labrador, said he thinks most dog owners in Medford are responsible.

“I work with a guy who has pit bulls,” he said. “They seem nice, and I don’t want to take his dogs away.”

However, the council has received complaints from residents whose dogs have been attacked, which prompted the discussion.

“Half of all bites are coming from pit bulls,” Bunn said. “That’s the reality we’re faced with at the council.”