Dog owners face unlimited fines from March 18, 2026 if their pets alarm or attack livestock under new legislation in England and Wales
Fresh legislation affecting every dog owner in England comes into force from March 18, 2026. Under the overhaul from the Labour Party government, canines will face restrictions to prevent them from distressing livestock throughout England.
The motivation behind this nationwide change across England and Wales stems from the fact that the “impact on livestock keepers can be devastating”. “They face financial loss as well as personal distress,” the Labour Party government has explained.
The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025 modernises the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953 and takes effect from Wednesday 18 March 2026, reports Birmingham Live. This legislation applies solely to England and Wales, it is noted.
The legislative amendment establishes a robust deterrent by raising the penalty from a maximum £1,000 fine to an unlimited fine.
Investigators now possess the authority to confiscate and hold a dog when they have reasonable grounds to suspect there is a danger that the animal might attack or distress livestock again.
They are also granted the authority to collect samples and impressions from a dog or livestock when police have reasonable grounds to suspect the dog has attacked or worried the livestock, and that a sample or impression might provide evidence of an offence.
The legislative change additionally empowers them to enter and search properties to identify, confiscate and detain a dog for preventing future incidents, to gather samples or impressions, or seize any other evidence. The government has provided some clarity for dog owners, stating: “Responsible access to the countryside is encouraged. Be aware of your surroundings when walking near livestock.
“A dog does not need to make physical contact with animals to commit an offence under the new law. Chasing or disturbing livestock can cause harm.
“The Countryside Code advises that dogs should be kept on a lead around livestock. Always check local signs, as some areas require dogs to be on a lead all or part of the year.”
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