17 Mar Livestock worrying law changes
What Dog Owners Need to Know
If you enjoy countryside walks with your dog, there’s an important law change you should know about.
From 18 March 2026, dog owners in England and Wales could face unlimited fines if their dog attacks, chases or disturbs farm animals. The new rules strengthen protection for livestock and give police greater powers to investigate incidents.
At 4Paws, we know most owners want to do the right thing. So we’ve created a simple, guide with questions and answers, to help you understand livestock worrying laws, what’s changing, and how to keep both your dog and farm animals safe.
What is livestock worrying?
‘Livestock worrying’ is when a dog attacks, chases or disturbs farm animals.
And here’s something many dog owners don’t realise – your dog doesn’t need to bite or injure an animal for it to be an offence.
Livestock worrying can include:
- Chasing sheep or cattle
- Barking or running towards livestock
- Being off the lead in a field containing sheep
- Attacking or biting farm animals
Even a short chase can have serious consequences. Sheep can panic, become injured, miscarry or separate from their lambs, causing distress for the animals and financial loss for farmers.
What law is changing?
The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025 introduces tougher penalties and stronger enforcement powers.
The biggest change? Unlimited fines for dog owners whose pets attack or worry livestock.
Previously, fines were capped at £1,000. Under the updated law, courts now have the power to issue much larger penalties depending on the severity of the incident.
The goal is simple: encourage responsible dog ownership and reduce livestock attacks.
A survey of farmers from the National Sheep Association found that almost four in five (87%) sheep farmers have experienced a dog attack on their flock in the last year.
Where does the law apply?
Many people assume livestock worrying laws only apply in fields, but that’s not the case.
The rules can apply in several places where farm animals may be present, including:
- Farmland and grazing fields
- Public footpaths crossing farmland
- Country tracks
- Rural roads where animals are being moved
In other words, if you’re walking in the countryside and livestock are nearby, you need to make sure your dog is under control at all times.
What animals count as livestock?
The law protects a wide range of farm animals, including:
- Sheep
- Cattle
- Goats
- Pigs
- Horses
- Poultry
The updated legislation also now includes camelids, such as alpacas and llamas, which are becoming increasingly common on UK farms.
What powers do policy have under the new law?
The updated law also gives police stronger powers to investigate livestock worrying incidents.
These powers may include:
- Seizing dogs suspected of attacking livestock
- Collecting forensic evidence such as DNA
- Entering premises as part of an investigation
- Holding a dog while enquiries are carried out
Courts may also require owners to pay the costs of seizing and caring for a detained dog.
Why are these changes being introduced?
Livestock worrying is a growing problem in rural areas. Across the UK, dog attacks on farm animals cost the farming industry millions of pounds every year, with sheep often the most affected.
But the impact isn’t just financial. Farmers regularly report the emotional distress of finding injured or dead animals after a dog attack.
Strengthening the law aims to protect farm animals, support farmers and encourage responsible dog ownership.
How dog owners can avoid livestock worrying
The good news is that livestock worrying is largely preventable. Here are some simple ways to keep everyone safe during countryside walks:
Keep your dog on a lead near livestock
If you see sheep, cattle or other farm animals nearby, put your dog on a lead immediately.
Pay attention to signage
Many fields display signs reminding dog owners to use leads, especially during lambing season.
Only let your dog off the lead if their recall is reliable
If your dog doesn’t reliably come back when called, it’s safest to keep them on a lead.
Stay aware of your surroundings
Livestock can sometimes be hidden behind hills, hedges or gates. A few seconds of awareness can prevent a serious situation.
The bottom line for dog owners
Most dogs have a natural instinct to chase moving animals. Even well-trained dogs can react unexpectedly when faced with sheep or cattle.
With the new law introducing unlimited fines and tougher enforcement, keeping your dog under control around livestock is more important than ever.
Don’t forget that responsible countryside walking helps protect farm animals, the farmers livelihoods, your dog’s safety – and now, your wallet!
We believe great dog ownership means looking out for everyone – including the animals that share the countryside with us.
Disclaimer: This blog is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Readers should refer to the official legislation and seek appropriate professional advice where needed.