Dog law changes now in force and ‘extend to paths and roads’
If in doubt use lead (Image: Annalee via Getty Images)
Dog owners are being alerted to an important legal change, which could result in them facing unlimited fines.
The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025 officially came into force on March 18, 2026, introducing some of the most significant updates to countryside regulations in decades.
The alert comes as increasing daylight hours and milder temperatures prompt more people to get outside. Under the new law, which is in place in England and Wales, the previous £1,000 cap on fines has been scrapped, meaning courts can now impose unlimited fines on owners whose dogs are found with livestock of concern.
Importantly, “livestock disturbance” does not simply mean attack; this includes stalking animals without causing any physical harm or causing them distress or anxiety. Along with these changes, the police have been provided with increased powers to investigate incidents.
Officers can now seize and detain dogs suspected of being involved, enter properties with warrants and gather evidence, including obtaining DNA samples or mouth marks to help identify the dog responsible. For many owners, the new law represents a development that appears to be significantly more serious than before.
Michael Nelson, from Kennel Stores, said: “Many people still think that this law only applies if a dog actually attacks or injures an animal, but that is not the case. Even something as simple as chasing livestock can be enough.
Dog owners are being warned (Image: Pexels)
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“Owners often say their dog is friendly and won’t harm anything, and this can be true in most situations. But around livestock, instincts can take over rapidly, and that’s where the problems start.”
Major dog law changes mean roads and trails are now included
One of the most significant changes that surprises people is where the law now applies. Previously focused on agricultural land, the updated law now covers incidents occurring not only within farms but also on roads, paths and public rights of way near livestock.
Michael said, “This is a big change that hasn’t really come through yet. You don’t actually have to walk through a field anymore. If your dog reacts to animals from a nearby path or road, you can still get into trouble.”
The law has also been amended to reflect the actual impact of these events. An offense does not require physical harm to livestock; Stress alone can lead to serious consequences, including miscarriage or long-term health complications.
Michael said: “From a distance, it may seem harmless, a dog running or barking, but for the animals involved, it’s an entirely different story. They can panic, run away, and injure themselves very easily.”
He further cautioned that once an incident occurs, the consequences can escalate quickly: “People don’t always realise how serious it can be. You could be dealing with police involvement, having your dog taken away during the investigation and potentially enormous fines.”
Courts also have the power to direct owners to meet the expenses associated with the custody and care of a detained dog, further increasing the financial burden.
Michael said, “If you’re anywhere near livestock, the safest thing you can do is keep your dog on a leash. It’s not about whether your dog is well trained or friendly. It’s about understanding that at the wrong time, any dog can react.”
