The UK’s countryside is changing—and so is the law that protects it. With the introduction of the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025, dog owners now face significantly stricter responsibilities when walking near farm animals.
Why the Law Has Changed
Livestock worrying—where dogs chase, attack, or even just stress farm animals—has become a growing issue across the UK. Recent figures estimate the cost of these incidents at around £1.8 million annually, with over 80% of farmers affected each year .
The previous legislation dated back to 1953, long before today’s levels of dog ownership, public access to farmland, and modern policing methods. The new Act, passed in December 2025 and in force from March 2026, is the most significant update in over 70 years .
Key Changes Dog Owners Must Understand
The updated law introduces several important changes that every responsible owner should be aware of:
1. Unlimited fines
Previously capped at £1,000, fines for livestock worrying are now unlimited, reflecting the seriousness of these incidents .
2. Broader definition of livestock
Animals such as alpacas and llamas are now included, recognising changes in modern farming .
3. More situations count as an offence
Incidents on roads and public paths near livestock are now covered—not just inside fields .
4. Stronger police powers
Authorities can detain dogs suspected of being a risk and investigate incidents more thoroughly .
5. Clearer definition of “worrying”
It’s not just physical attacks—chasing or causing distress that leads to injury or miscarriage in livestock can also be an offence .
What This Means for Dog Owners
This legislation reinforces the importance of real-world obedience, not just basic commands in a controlled environment.
Recall is no longer optional—it’s essential.
A reliable recall could be the difference between a safe walk and a legal offence. Owners should prioritise recall training under distraction, especially around other animals.
Lead training matters more than ever.
With more areas now covered by the law, teaching dogs to walk calmly on a lead is critical, particularly in rural or mixed-use environments.
Impulse control and neutrality
Dogs don’t need to interact with livestock—they need to ignore them. Training exercises that build calm behaviour around distractions are key.
Owner education is crucial
Many incidents occur because owners underestimate their dog’s instincts. Dog Clubs are in a unique position to teach:
When to keep dogs on a lead
This legislation isn’t about punishing dog owners, it’s about preventing harm. Livestock worrying can cause severe injury, death, and long-term stress to animals, as well as emotional and financial strain for farmers .
For dog owners, it’s a reminder that even well-loved pets have natural instincts that must be managed responsibly, because in today’s countryside, good training isn’t just about manners, it’s about responsibility.
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