Defra’s new law protects farm animals from dog attacks
23 March 2026
A new law has come into effect (18th March) that sees stronger protection for farm animals from dog attacks in England and Wales. Livestock worrying, occurs when a dog one owns or is in charge of chases, attacks, or causes distress to livestock on agricultural land. The aim of the new law is to prevent livestock death and injury, which will save farmers thousands of pounds each year.
The police now have greater powers and can investigate incidents more effectively. These powers include entering premises to secure evidence or animal DNA and powers to detain dogs they suspect may attack or worry livestock. Alongside this, courts will also be able to require offenders to cover the costs of seizing and caring for a detained dog. In addition, the fine for livestock worrying has increased from £1,000 to an unlimited fine.
Vets in practice see the devastating impact of livestock worrying and have a role to play in supporting investigations. The BSAVA is pleased to see the collaborative work it did with Defra has influenced outcomes where vets support investigative processes resulting in tangible measures that ensure better animal welfare. Alongside this, the BSAVA continues to encourage responsible dog ownership.
A survey of farmers from the National Sheep Association found that almost four in five (87%) sheep farmers experienced a dog attack on their flock in 2024. Many have reported multiple incidents. Recently, the National Farmers’ Union found that the cost of livestock worrying has risen by 10% from the previous year. This has now reached almost £2 million. The Midlands alone saw an estimated £438,000 worth of livestock harmed by dog attacks, followed by the Southeast at £330,000. While these incidents can unfold in moments, they leave lasting damage and affect livelihoods.
The stronger protections support the safety and well-being of rural communities and ensure that irresponsible dog owners can be held to account. Additionally, the act introduces a new defence for dog owners were the dog worries livestock whilst in someone else’s charge without their consent, such as if it has been stolen or taken without permission.
To better reflect the seriousness of certain incidents, the law now distinguishes more clearly between a dog attacking livestock and a dog worrying livestock. This does not create new offences but helps ensure the law better captures the nature and severity of what has happened. The law also extends protection to incidents that happen on roads and paths. This recognises incidents can occur when farmers move their livestock, for example along a road to another field or milking parlour. It also expands the definition of livestock to include camelids such as llamas and alpacas.
Further information
Defra encourages dog owners to follow the Countryside Code and to keep dogs under control and in sight when visiting areas where livestock are present. They are also asked to ensure dogs cannot escape from homes or gardens near livestock and to report any incidents of livestock worrying to the police or local farmers.
This announcement follows the launch of the Animal Welfare Strategy for England, where the Government has also reconvened the Responsible Dog Ownership (RDO) taskforce. This is a group of experts that will provide recommendations on ways to encourage responsible dog ownership and reduce dog attacks across England and Wales.
For further information on the animal welfare strategy for England, please see the following BSAVA news article.