The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025

The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025

Horses are fully protected under the law.

The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025 is a major update to UK law in England and Wales designed to combat the rising number of dog attacks on farm animals. Passed in December 2025 and came into effect on March 18, 2026, this legislation acts as an amendment to the original 1953 Act, providing police with stronger enforcement powers and imposing higher penalties.

Key Changes Introduced by the 2025 Act

Below is a breakdown of the most important reforms.

1. Updated Definitions

Expanded livestock categories: The Act now includes alpacas and llamas, within the legal definition of livestock.

Clearer definition of “attack” and “worrying”: The law now reflects modern farming practices and the reality that stress alone can injure or kill livestock.

2. Incidents on Roads and Paths Now Covered

Previously, livestock worrying offences only applied when dogs were physically in fields with livestock. The amendment extends the offence to roads and public paths where livestock may be present.

roadside livestock worrying: This closes a major loophole that often prevented prosecution.

3. New Exemptions for Dog Owners

A dog owner is no longer automatically liable if their dog was under someone else’s charge at the time of the incident, provided certain conditions are met.

owner liability exemptions: This protects responsible owners while still ensuring accountability for example if a dog had been stolen or taken without permission.

4. Stronger Enforcement Powers

Authorities now have enhanced powers to investigate suspected offences, including:

seizure and detention of dogs

collection of samples and impressions (e.g., DNA, footprints)

expanded powers of entry to premises where a dog may be kept

These changes give police and inspectors the tools needed to gather evidence effectively, something the 1953 Act lacked.

What This Means for Dog Owners

The message is simple: keep your dog under control around livestock at all times. However, the law is not designed to restrict responsible dog walking.

Dog owners should be aware that:

A dog does not need to make physical contact to commit an offence – chasing or causing stress is enough.

Police now have greater authority to intervene if a dog is suspected of posing a risk.

Fines can be unlimited and dogs may be detained.

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Message Sent By
Helen Lacey
(North Wales Police, HORSE WATCH CO-ORDINATOR, North Wales)