The law on livestock worrying has been modernised and applies even on public footpaths and rights of way. This matters for farmers, dog owners and walkers.
What’s changed?
- Unlimited fines – old £1,000 cap removed.
- More animals protected – including alpacas & llamas.
- More places covered – fields, footpaths, roads, and while livestock are being moved.
- Stronger police powers – dogs can be seized, evidence collected, premises entered with a warrant.
Worrying vs attacking
- Livestock do not need to be bitten for an offence to occur.
- Worrying includes: chasing, rushing, harassing, causing fear, or being loose among livestock.
- Stress alone counts as harm (can cause miscarriages, injuries, exhaustion, long-term fear).
- Both worrying and attacking are criminal offences.
Evidence
Cases don’t need a witness. Evidence can include livestock injuries or stress, DNA/blood, disturbed ground, fencing damage, behaviour of animals, witness statements, and examination of the dog.
“Under proper control” – what it really means
A dog is under control only if the handler can prevent any approach or chase at all times.
- Stopping the dog after it runs = control already lost.
- Long lines, flexi leads, or dragging leads near livestock often don’t count.
- Off-lead control has a very high bar.
- “Friendly”, “well trained” or “never done it before” is irrelevant in law.
Important
A loose dog among livestock, fence-running or stalking can already be an offence. The law is about risk and stress, not intent.
Are seized dogs killed?
Usually no. Seizure is for evidence or to prevent repeat incidents. Courts focus on owner responsibility; destruction orders are rare.
In short
- No bite needed for an offence.
- Stress and chasing = harm.
- Evidence can be forensic.
- Proper control means preventing risk, not recalling later.
- Responsibility lies with the handler.
This law protects animals who can’t escape and makes expectations clear for everyone sharing the countryside.