Dusko Culibrk was charged after police found the body of the dead dog in the Nicholls home he shared with his parents in May. Two other dogs found at the property were taken into the care of the RSPCA after further claims of abuse.

RSPCA inspectors found a makeshift wire noose at the property and a large pool of blood.

Culibrk was granted bail in the ACT Supreme Court on condition he stay in the company of an orthodox priest before facing charges including aggravated cruelty. Part of his bail conditions are that he not have unaccompanied contact with a dog that resides at the Tallong farm.

Culibrk had been on remand at the Alexander Maconochie Centre for nearly four months after his arrest. The maximum penalty for the aggravated cruelty charge is two years in prison.

In handing down his reasons for granting bail, Justice Richard Refshauge said Culibrk had been diagnosed with schizophrenia and had been receiving medication which had settled his behaviour.

Justice Richard Refshauge also ordered Culibrk not to contact neighbours who made complaints to police.

He was also ordered not to intimidate, harass or assault his parents. Justice Refshauge noted Culibrk was prone to acts of violence against his parents.

For more on this story, including details of Culibrk's next court appearance, see the print edition of today's Canberra Times.