A spokesman for Mourinho said: “Jose Mourinho can confirm that he was cautioned by police, and released without charge earlier this morning, after an incident involving his pet dog.

“The incident occurred due to a misunderstanding over documents required for veterinary regulations.

“Mr Mourinho would like to make it clear that his pet dog was bought in England from a reputable breeder and has had all its necessary inoculations. Full co-operation will be given to the authorities over any animal health issues.”

Officer were concerned the dog had been taken abroad, then back to Britain, without the required jabs.

Reports suggested that Mourinho had refused to let police take the dog and got into an argument with officers.

He received a caution for obstructing police at a west London police station.

A Scotland Yard spokesman said officers went to an address in central London at 7.45pm on Tuesday with an officer from the Animal Health and Welfare Service.

He said: “A 44-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of obstructing police and was taken to a west London police station.

“He subsequently received a caution for obstructing police.”

Scotland Yard said the dog was to be seized for alleged offences under the Animal Health Act of 1981 and the Rabies Order of 1974.

The spokesman said officers discussed the removal of the animal from the address with the owners.

Mourinho, 44, was at Chelsea’s player of the year awards when his wife Tami telephoned to tell him the dog was being taken away.