Dog law change is now in force and ‘extended to paths and roads’

Dog owners are being alerted about a significant legal change that could result in them facing unlimited fines. The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025 officially took effect on March 18, 2026, introducing some of the most substantial updates to countryside regulations in decades.

The alert arrives as extended daylight hours and milder temperatures encourage more individuals to venture outdoors for walks. Under the fresh legislation, which is applicable in England and Wales, the previous £1,000 ceiling on fines has been abolished, meaning courts can now impose unlimited fines on owners whose dogs are discovered to have worried livestock.

Crucially, “livestock worrying” doesn’t simply mean an attack; it encompasses chasing animals or causing them distress or anxiety, even without any physical harm. Simultaneously, police have been granted enhanced powers to investigate incidents.

Officers can now seize and detain dogs suspected of involvement, enter properties with a warrant and gather evidence, including obtaining DNA samples or mouth impressions to assist in identifying the dog responsible. For numerous owners, it represents a development that appears considerably more severe than previously.

Michael Nelson, from Kennel Store, said: “A lot of people still think this law only applies if a dog actually attacks or injures an animal, but that’s not the case. Even something as simple as chasing livestock can be enough.

“Owners often say their dog is friendly and wouldn’t hurt anything and that might be true in most situations. But around livestock, instinct can take over very quickly, and that’s where problems start.”

Major dog law change means roads and paths now included

One of the most significant changes catching people off guard is where the legislation now applies. Previously concentrated on agricultural land, the updated law now encompasses incidents occurring on roads, paths and public rights of way near livestock, not solely within fields.

Michael said: “That’s a big change that hasn’t really cut through yet. You don’t actually have to be walking through a field anymore. If your dog reacts to animals from a nearby path or road, you could still be in trouble.”

The legislation has also been revised to reflect the genuine impact these incidents can cause. Livestock need not be physically harmed for an offence to take place; stress alone can trigger serious consequences, including miscarriage or long-term health complications.

Michael said: “From a distance, it can look harmless, a dog running or barking, but for the animals involved, it’s a completely different story. They can panic, run, and injure themselves very easily.”

He further cautioned that once an incident occurs, the repercussions can spiral rapidly: “People don’t always realise how serious it can become. You could be dealing with police involvement, your dog being taken away while it’s investigated and potentially a very significant fine.”

Courts are also empowered to instruct owners to meet the expenses linked to seizing and caring for a detained dog, further compounding the financial burden.

Michael said: “If you’re anywhere near livestock, the safest thing you can do is keep your dog on a lead. It’s not about whether your dog is well-trained or friendly. It’s about understanding that in the wrong moment, any dog can react.”