NASHVILLE -- A man was arrested Saturday afternoon in south Nashville after police said he intentionally shot his dog.

According to Animal Control, Maurico Rios shot his female pit bull at his home on Haywood Lane. Police said he told them that the dog growled at him, prompting Rios to shoot her.

"We think (the bullet went) through the chest, and it hit some of the jugular, and that's why it passed so quick," Metro Animal Control Officer Billy Biggs said.

Biggs said the Animal Control took three dogs that were on Rios' property, including two pit bull puppies.

Officials said Rios will be charged with animal cruelty.