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A new law to tackle dog attacks on livestock has come into force across England and Wales, giving greater protection to farm animals and increasing penalties for irresponsible dog owners.

The updated legislation modernises a law first introduced in 1953, aiming to better protect farmers’ livelihoods.

The Dogs Protection of Livestock Amendment Act 2025 took effect on March 18, marking the most significant update to livestock worrying legislation in more than 70 years.

The new laws, introduced by the UK Government, will include tougher penalties. The previous £1,000 maximum fine has been replaced with unlimited fines, allowing courts to impose penalties proportionate to the financial loss and seriousness of the incident.

Police have also been given stronger powers to investigate attacks, including the ability to seize dogs, enter premises with a warrant, and collect evidence such as DNA samples.

The Act now distinguishes more clearly between “attacking” and “worrying” livestock, highlighting the seriousness of incidents.

“Worrying” includes behaviours such as chasing, harassing, barking at, or otherwise causing distress to farm animals. It also covers any actions likely to result in injury, including stress-induced miscarriage in pregnant ewes.

Dogs do not need to make physical contact with livestock for an offence to occur.

Karen Davies, of AGA Farm in Rudry, said her farm has so far avoided incidents but warned of the risks dogs can pose around livestock.

“We have very good fencing and no public footpaths across our land, so we haven’t experienced a loss of stock due to dogs,” she said.

“However, I’ve seen it happen on other farms. A member of the public can be walking what seems like a lovable, well-behaved pet, but as soon as it sees livestock its behaviour can change. Dogs can go into hunting mode and won’t let go – they can kill.”

She stressed the importance of responsible dog ownership in the countryside and said some people don’t know the rules.

“It’s like the Countryside Code – close gates and keep dogs on a lead. Farmland isn’t a park; sheep aren’t pets, they are farm animals, and dogs can react very differently around them.

“I’ve seen dogs chase horses and cattle, but sheep are far more vulnerable. Lambs in particular can’t run, so it’s vital that owners keep their dogs under control.”

She continued: “In general, people are aware of the law, but this makes it clearer that responsibility lies with the owner. Farmers are always on high alert at this time of year, especially as the weather improves and more people are out walking.

“It can have a devastating effect on an animal to be chased or harassed by a dog. I’m really glad the law has stepped up to better protect farm animals and remind the public that if a dog’s natural instinct kicks in, owners will face the consequences.”

The changes follow growing concern over livestock worrying incidents, which continue to have a serious impact on farmers.

Dog attacks are estimated to cost the industry millions each year, with many cases resulting in severe injury or the death of animals.

Dog owners are being urged to keep their pets under close control when walking in the countryside, particularly near farmland. Using a lead in fields with livestock and sticking to public footpaths are among the key steps recommended to prevent incidents.