Important update for dog owners and walkers – New Law in Place!

The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025 came into effect on 18 March 2026 in England and Wales. The act strengthens protections for livestock from dog attacks and livestock worrying. It supplements other Acts such as the Animals Act 1971 which already provide protection.

Key updated:

- Dogs do NOT need to bite livestock for an offence to occur – chasing or causing distress is enough
- Unlimited fines can now be issued to owners and the person in charge of the dog at the time of the incident
- Police have stronger powers, including seizing dogs and detaining dogs they reasonably believe were involved in an incident
- The law now covers more animals such as alpacas and llamas and applies on roads and footpaths as well as fields

Livestock worrying can cause serious harm, including injury, death, and stress to animals – even without physical contact and could cost your dog and you dearly

Top tips

Under the Animals Act 1971, farmers may have a legal defence to shoot a dog that is worrying livestock where there is no reasonable alternative to stop the dog. This applies where the dog is causing, or is likely to cause, damage to livestock. They do not have to bite livestock (however if the dog is no longer in the vicinity or poses no immediate risk, this defence would not apply)

Allowing a dog to worry livestock is a criminal offence and can have serious consequences for farmers, animals, and dog owners alike – this could cost your dog their life and you could receive an unlimited fine and a criminal record

Please help us protect our rural community by acting responsibly when enjoying the countryside with your furry friends 🐾

*please note this is an update and not legal advice*