Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025

As we live in a rural environment, residents should be aware of the above legislation that comes into effect on 18th March 2026.

There are a number of changes to the responsibilities and requirements of dog owners and some of the key changes are shown below.

Key Legal Changes (Effective 18 March 2026)

Unlimited Fines: The previous maximum fine of £1,000 for livestock worrying has been removed, replaced by unlimited fines.

Wider Definition of Livestock: The law now explicitly includes camelids (alpacas and llamas) alongside sheep, cattle, and other farm animals.

Expanded Location Scope: The law formally covers incidents occurring on public rights of way, roads, and farm tracks, not just in enclosed fields.

Broader Definition of "Worrying": An offence now includes chasing or causing stress to livestock that results in injury, suffering, or abortion, even if there is no physical contact.

Enhanced Police Powers: Police can seize and detain dogs suspected of attacking or worrying livestock, enter premises with a warrant to collect evidence, and take forensic samples (DNA/mouth impressions) from dogs.

New Defense for Owners: A defense is introduced for dog owners if their dog was in the charge of someone else without their consent (e.g., if the dog was stolen).

What "Under Control" Means on Public Paths

While there is no blanket national law requiring dogs to be on a lead on all public rights of way, you must keep your dog under close control. Under the updated law, if your dog is not on a lead and chases or causes distress to livestock on a path, it is an offense.

Close Control: Means the dog is on a fixed lead, walking at heel, or has a reliable recall.

Close Proximity: Dogs should not be allowed to stray off the path.

Local Restrictions and Other Rules

Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs): Local authorities can use PSPOs to make it a legal requirement to keep dogs on leads on specific rights of way.

Access Land (Open Access): By law, you must keep your dog on a short lead (max 2m) on access land between 1 March and 31 July, and at all times near livestock.

Landowner Rights: Under the Animals Act 1971, a farmer may be defended in civil proceedings if they kill or injure a dog that is "worrying" livestock (chasing, attacking, or being at large in a field).