The law concerning dogs in proximity to farm animals and livestock has changed, and been made tougher to better protect livestock. It’s called the ‘Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025’ and came into effect on March 18th.

NFDOG promotes responsible ownership and walking. That helps us to preserve the freedoms we enjoy as dog owners to walk our pets off-lead in the New Forest. Part of that responsibility is clearly leaving the livestock, such as cows and occasionally sheep well alone, as well as the ponies and other stock. Having good control of your dog is the key, and we know that may mean using a lead when necessary.

The new act strengthens to deterrence of dog-worrying. It includes:

Owner Responsibility: Owners face legal consequences even if the dog is not in their direct charge at the time of the incident, unless it was taken without permission. 

Wider Coverage: The law applies to incidents on roads, paths, and in fields. A dog does not need to make physical contact for an offence to occur; chasing or causing distress is sufficient.

Police Powers & Penalties: Police can seize dogs suspected of attacking livestock, use DNA/mouth impressions for evidence, and enter premises with a warrant. Fines are now unlimited, aiming to act as a stronger deterrent against irresponsible dog ownership.

Expanded Definition: Livestock now officially includes camelids such as llamas and alpacas, alongside traditional farm animals.

Fines and penalties: provides a clear deterrent by increasing the penalty from a fine of up to £1,000 to an unlimited fine

The original legislation about dog worrying was introduced in 1953, and hadn’t changed. Those rules still exist but have been strengthened as above. A key part is that a dog doesn’t need to make contact with an animal. Chasing it or otherwise causing distress to a farm animal, whether on a farm or grazing loose in the forest, falls into the legislation.

Fortunately attacks by dogs, or worrying, are reportedly rare in the New Forest. It indicates that dog owners are overwhelmingly responsible in their behaviour around livestock. But not all owners take sufficient care, and it is devastating for the farmer and others when incidents occur, and so we support the new legal position.

We are also aware that there are those who continually oppose dog freedom, and would like to permanently restrict dogs and owners, for example by always using a lead for all dogs in all places. NFDOG opposes this restriction, though you will read comments by others which suggest the new law requires excessive and continual restraint. It doesn't. 

Hampshire County Council's Access Team have produced a great video about dog walking in areas with livestock, how to behave, and the potential issues to avoid. You can watch it here. 

If you’d like to read more, please click here: https://defrafarming.blog.gov.uk/2025/12/18/law-changes-strengthen-protection-for-livestock/