New Law Gives Police Powers to Protect Livestock from Dog Attacks

A new law in England and Wales aims to better protect farm animals from dog attacks by updating the existing ‘livestock worrying’ legislation, which has been in place for over 70 years. The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025, effective from Wednesday, allows police to take DNA samples from dogs suspected of attacking, chasing, or causing distress to livestock. The maximum penalty for such incidents has increased from £1,000 to an unlimited fine. Police may also seize dogs posing a continuing threat and enter premises to collect evidence. The law now permits prosecution of attacks occurring on public paths and roads, not just private farmland, and expands the definition of protected animals to include camelids, such as llamas and alpacas. Farmers report that dog attacks are a growing problem, with livestock losses valued at nearly £2 million in 2025, an increase of 10% from the previous year. Experts, including dog behaviourists, welcome the changes but advise responsible dog owners to keep pets on leads around livestock. The law has been described as a significant step forward by organisations representing farmers and rural landowners, highlighting the emotional and financial toll of dog attacks on farm animals.