Liam Hewitson was having an epileptic fit when he was attacked and sustained significant injuries to his face and neck, say police.
He was treated at the scene by paramedics but subsequently died of his injuries.
The dog, a male which was a pit-bull cross and not a banned breed, had belonged to Mr Hewitson since birth and was called Trigger.
Police said it was around five or six years old.
It was later taken from the terraced house in Dundonald Street and put down by vets.
The tragedy happened on the afternoon of New Year's Day.
Flowers were later left outside the property.
Mr Hewitson's family said in a statement: "Liam was a happy lad who was always smiling and had lots of friends.
"He had a beautiful personality and he will be missed by his dad Phil, girlfriend Jess and sisters Melissa and Aleisha and brother Cordell.
"The family have asked to be given some privacy as they have been through a truly horrific experience and they are all still very much in shock."
Police say they are treating the incident as a tragic accident and there is no criminal investigation.
A file will be passed to the coroner in due course.
On a tribute page set up on Facebook, Mizzy B Saeed wrote: "Tragic news Saw liam shortly before the incident. Exchanged hi/hello
"Awful news hasn't sunk in yet. Thoughts and prayers with his family (Liam's neighbour)."
Chantelle Hewitson wrote: "Rest In peace little cousin so heartbreaking you with your beautiful mum now Liam rest in paradise love you always xxxx".
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