The law on dogs and livestock has changed

The law on dogs and livestock has changed. 

From March 2026, tougher penalties and new police powers are in force to protect farm animals and support rural communities.

It will now be an offence if a dog:

• Attacks livestock

• Chases, stalks or frightens livestock

• Causes stress, injury, death, miscarriage or loss of produce

• A dog does NOT need to touch an animal for an offence to occur.

The law covers a wide range of livestock, including:

• Sheep • Cattle (cows, bulls, calves) 

• Goats 

• Pigs 

• Horses 

• Poultry (chickens, turkeys, ducks, geese) 

• Alpacas and llamas 

These protections apply on farmland and on public footpaths or roads where livestock are present.

Under the updated law, police can now:

• Seize dogs involved in livestock worrying

• Enter premises with a warrant

• Take DNA and other evidence

• Recover costs from offenders

• Courts can issue unlimited fines.

As a dog owner, you need to:

• Keep dogs under close control near livestock

• Use a lead in fields with animals

• Public rights of way are included

• Remember, it's your dog. Your responsibility.