Dog owners in England and Wales face a significant update to the law with the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025, which took effect on March 18, 2026. This legislation represents one of the biggest changes to countryside regulations in decades and carries severe consequences for breaches.
Under the new law, the previous £1,000 limit on fines for livestock worrying has been removed, allowing courts to impose unlimited penalties. Importantly, livestock worrying now includes any behavior that causes fear or stress to farm animals—not just physical attacks. This means that chasing or intimidating livestock can result in prosecution.
Police enforcement powers have also been strengthened. Authorities can seize dogs suspected of distressing livestock and enter properties with a warrant to gather evidence, including collecting DNA samples or mouth imprints to identify the dog involved. This signals a more serious approach to protecting farm animals.
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Michael Nelson of Kennel Store points out a common misconception: “Many owners think this law applies only if their dog attacks livestock, but even chasing animals can count as an offence. Around livestock, instincts can kick in quickly, and that’s when trouble starts.”
A surprising aspect of the new legislation is its expanded scope. The law now applies beyond agricultural land, covering roads, footpaths, and public rights of way near livestock. So, a dog causing distress from a nearby path or roadway can still lead to penalties.
Michael adds, “This extension hasn’t been widely understood yet. You don’t have to be inside a field for the law to apply. If your dog unsettles animals from close by, you could be liable.”
The law also acknowledges the severe impact stress can have on livestock. Even without physical injury, stress can cause miscarriages or long-term health problems for the animals. What may seem like harmless barking or running to a dog owner can be deeply distressing to livestock, causing them to panic and potentially injure themselves.
Michael warns about the escalating consequences following an incident: “Once livestock worrying occurs, police involvement can escalate quickly. Dogs may be seized while investigations take place, and significant fines can follow.”
Additionally, courts may require owners to cover all costs related to seizing and caring for their dogs, increasing the financial burden.
For anyone near livestock, Michael’s advice is clear: “Keep your dog on a lead. It’s not just about training or temperament—every dog can react in unpredictable ways around farm animals.”