A major update to the law relating to dogs attacking livestock has come into effect.
The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025 is designed to combat the rising number of dog attacks on farm animals.
Key changes include:
- Definition of ‘worrying’: Physical contact is not required for an offence. ‘Worrying’ includes chasing, running at, or causing fear or panic to livestock.
- Definition of ‘livestock’: The law now explicitly includes camelids such as alpacas and llamas.
- Locations: The law now covers incidents occurring on public footpaths, roads, and bridleways, not just within fenced agricultural fields.
- Unlimited fines: The previous maximum fine of £1,000 has been removed. Courts can now impose unlimited fines for livestock worrying.
