Two police dog handlers and a dog tried to arrest the man but he assaulted one officer and ran off.
A police dog that had been unleashed ran after him. A dog handler rounded a corner to find the offender choking the dog to the point of unconsciousness.
He fired a warning shot from his pistol which caused the offender to loosen his grip.
"Officers involved described the man offering extreme resistance however he was able to be subdued," Mr Lynam said.
A police helicopter spotted the other man, a 34-year-old, as he attempted to flee and he was arrested in bushes without further incident.
Both men are under police guard in Waikato Hospital.
The dog will be examined by a vet later today.
The Independent Police Conduct Authority has been advised of the incident.