It is alleged the men approached the woman and her French Bulldog just off Brinsley Hill, Brinsley, and claimed that they wanted her dog.
She then picked him up, at which point the men reportedly tried to attack her.
She is reported to have sustained cuts to her hands and arms, but did not need medical attention.
Officers received a call just before 2.30pm on Friday, April 9, reporting the incident. Fortunately, the woman was able to return home with her dog safely.
It’s also reported that the woman had noticed markings on a tree in her garden.
Officers are investigating the incident as part of a targeted approach by the force to tackle dog thefts in Nottinghamshire, which has seen the appointment of a dog theft lead.
Superintendent Paul Burrows said: “A woman has been shaken after what should have been an enjoyable walk with her beloved dog.
“We understand that for many people your dogs are part of your family and Nottinghamshire Police understands…