Dog Owners in London and Wales Risk 'Unlimited Fines' If Their Pets Chase or Disturb Livestock

Dog owners in England and Wales could face unlimited fines if their pets chase, attack or disturb livestock from 18 March 2026. The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025 updates existing livestock worrying laws after receiving Royal Assent in December 2025, significantly increasing penalties for irresponsible behaviour.

The law removes the previous £1,000 cap on fines and broadens protections for farm animals including sheep, cattle and camelids such as llamas and alpacas. Across rural and public rights of way in England and Wales, including areas around London where livestock may be present. Dog owners and those in charge of dogs.

What the New Livestock Worrying Law Means

Under the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025, the legal framework for livestock-worrying offences has been modernised. The legislation strengthens protections against dog attacks or chasing incidents that can cause harm even without direct contact, such as causing fear or distress among livestock.

Previously, the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953 made it an offence to allow a dog to worry livestock, with a maximum fine of £1,000 and limited enforcement tools. The updated law retains the core offence but gives courts the power to impose unlimited fines based on the severity of the incident.

The Act also expands the definition of livestock to include animals such as alpacas and llamas, reflecting changes in British farming practices. In addition, offences can now take place on roads and public footpaths, not just enclosed agricultural land, closing previous legal gaps that made prosecutions harder.

This change follows years of campaigning by rural stakeholders who argued that livestock worrying has serious welfare and economic consequences. Research by the National Sheep Association showed high incidence rates of livestock attacks, while NFU Mutual estimated the annual cost of livestock worrying to farmers at nearly £1.8 million.

Expanded Powers for Police and Enforcement

The new law enhances the powers available to police and enforcement agencies. Under the updated provisions, officers may seize and detain dogs suspected of committing livestock worrying offences or posing a risk of repeating such behaviour, even if the incident was not witnessed directly. They are also permitted to enter premises with a warrant to gather evidence, including samples that may link a dog to an offence. In addition, authorities can investigate incidents that occur on public roads and footpaths where livestock are present. In serious cases, courts may order offenders to cover the costs associated with seizing and caring for detained animals.

Farmers' and rural organisations, including the Farmers' Union of Wales, welcomed as described the legislation as a strengthening of protections for livestock and rural livelihoods. They emphasised that even well-trained dogs can instinctively chase animals, causing injury or distress.

Police and courts will decide fines on a case-by-case basis, with no statutory upper limit. Legal experts say this broad discretionary power is intended to reflect the seriousness of some incidents and act as a deterrent, particularly for repeat or severe cases.

What Dog Owners Should Know

Under the updated law, dog owners are advised to exercise greater vigilance and control, particularly in rural areas or near pastures. This includes keeping dogs on leads where livestock may be nearby, following local signage, and avoiding areas where animals are grazing or being moved.

Even if a dog does not physically make contact with livestock, causing panic, injury or stress can constitute a prosecutable offence. Courts may also consider the circumstances of the owner, such as whether the dog was under effective control or if another person had charge of the animal without the owner's consent.The Act also outlines circumstances in which an owner may argue they were not in charge of the dog at the time of the incident.

Dog-walking groups and countryside users have stressed that the changes are not intended to restrict responsible dog walking, but rather to clarify expectations and encourage safer practices in mixed-use rural spaces. Responsible owners are being urged to familiarise themselves with the Countryside Code and local guidance.