Dogs & Livestock: Important Legal Changes for Dog Owners (England & Wales)

From the 18th of March 2026, important changes to livestock worrying legislation come into force in England and Wales. These updates significantly increase the responsibility placed on dog owners, handlers, and dog walkers, and carry more severe consequences for those who fail to keep dogs under control around livestock.

This blog explains what has changed, why it matters, and what dog owners can do now to protect their dogs, livestock, and themselves.

What is changing?

The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025 strengthens existing legislation designed to protect farm animals such as sheep and cattle. The law now better reflects the seriousness of livestock worrying incidents and expands both the scope of animals protected and the powers available to police and courts.

The animals covered by the legislation have been extended. The law now applies to:

• Cattle

• Sheep

• Goats

• Swine

• Horses

• Llamas and alpacas (camelids)

• Enclosed or farmed deer are also included under the legislation

What counts as “worrying livestock”?

A common misconception is that a dog must physically injure or kill livestock for an offence to occur. This is not true. Under the law, worrying livestock includes:

• Attacking livestock

• Chasing livestock

• Being off lead in a field or enclosure containing livestock, even if no contact occurs

Even if a dog does not touch an animal, chasing alone is enough for an owner or handler to be prosecuted.

Dogs who chase livestock can cause serious harm without making contact. When panicked, livestock may:

• Run and sustain injuries such as broken bones or getting caught in fencing

• Bunch together tightly, leading to injury or fatalities

• Miscarry unborn young due to stress

Increased penalties and police powers

The consequences for livestock worrying are now far more serious and are intended to act as a strong deterrent.

Unlimited fines

Previously, the maximum fine for an offence was £1,000. This has now been replaced with an unlimited fine.

Seizure, detention, and investigation

Police now have expanded powers to seize and detain dogs involved in livestock worrying, including chasing. They may also enter premises to obtain evidence such as CCTV, and take DNA samples or impressions where appropriate.

Courts can order offenders to cover the costs associated with seizing and caring for a detained dog.

Can farmers legally shoot a dog?

Yes. As a last resort, farmers are legally permitted to shoot a dog if it is worrying livestock and cannot be otherwise controlled. This is lawful and intended to protect livestock from immediate harm.

This highlights an important point: this legislation is not only about protecting livestock, but also about protecting dogs from preventable harm.

Where does the law apply?

The legislation applies to:

• Agricultural land

• Fields containing livestock

• Public footpaths and roads that pass through farmland

This includes situations where livestock are being moved between fields, recognising that incidents can occur unexpectedly.

Why this law matters

Livestock worrying has significant emotional, financial, and welfare impacts. According to government figures, the total cost of livestock worrying across the UK reached £1.8 million in 2025.

Beyond financial loss, these incidents:

• Cause serious animal suffering

• Damage farming livelihoods and businesses

• Create ongoing stress within rural communities

The updated law aims to reduce these impacts by enforcing responsible dog ownership and providing stronger tools to address the problem.

Understanding why dogs chase livestock

Dogs are predators by nature. Their natural predatory sequence includes:

orient → eye → stalk → chase → bite → kill → dissect → consume

Even well-loved family dogs can instinctively chase moving animals. Once chasing begins, it is highly reinforcing, which is why a recall alone may not always be enough in high-arousal situations. Recognising early warning signs, such as fixation, stalking posture, or ignoring cues, is crucial to preventing escalation.

What can dog owners do now?

Responsible ownership is key to preventing incidents.

Practical steps:

• Train both a reliable recall and a stop cue, then proof them in multiple environments

• Use long lines where livestock may be present (safely switch to regular lead if livestock is present)

• Ensure gardens and boundaries are secure if you live near farmland

• Hire enclosed dog fields if you want safe off-lead exercise

• Choose walking routes where there is no livestock. If unsure, keep your dog on-lead

Small dogs are not exempt. Chasing alone is sufficient for enforcement, regardless of a dog’s size or intent. Importantly, responsibility always lies with the owner or handler, not the dog. Even excitable or playful behaviour can still result in prosecution or serious consequences.

Local awareness matters

In areas rich in wildlife and farmland, such as North Norfolk, dogs are frequently exposed to livestock and wild animals. Being aware of where livestock are present and choosing appropriate walking locations helps keep everyone safe. If you are unsure whether livestock may be present, the safest option is to keep your dog on-lead.

Final thoughts

Being aware of changes in dog-related legislation is part of responsible ownership. Lack of awareness will not excuse an offence. These changes are not about restricting enjoyment with your dog. They are about ensuring dogs, livestock, and people can coexist safely.

If you would like help improving recall, impulse control, or making safe off-lead choices, Beano’s Canine Academy is here to support you.