New legislation aimed at tackling livestock attacks by dogs has been welcomed by Dorset’s Police and Crime Commissioner, marking a significant shift in how such incidents are treated under the law.
From today, the legal framework surrounding livestock offences has been strengthened, reflecting growing concern among farmers, rural communities, and law enforcement over the rising number of attacks. Crucially, the changes formally separate the offences of livestock “worrying” and livestock “attacking”, a distinction that underscores the seriousness and often violent nature of these incidents.
At the centre of the response is David Sidwick, who has voiced strong support for the reforms. He emphasised that the new measures are not only about punishing wrongdoing but also about prevention and responsibility.
“It is important to recognise the impact dogs can have on both livestock and wildlife,” he said. “These changes to the law will help deter offenders, encourage dog owners to act responsibly, and ensure that anyone who commits an offence is rightly punished.”
The updated legislation introduces tougher penalties and broader powers for courts. One of the most notable changes is the removal of the previous £1,000 cap on fines. Courts can now impose unlimited fines on dog owners found guilty of livestock worrying, reflecting the potentially devastating consequences of such incidents.
Additionally, authorities now have enhanced powers to seize and detain dogs involved in attacks. Owners may also be required to cover the costs associated with the seizure and care of their animals, a move designed to reinforce accountability and discourage negligence.
The reforms arrive against a troubling national backdrop. According to recent figures from the National Farmers’ Union, farm animals worth £1.95 million were injured or killed by dogs in 2025, representing a 10 percent increase on the previous year. These figures highlight not only the scale of the issue but also its growing trajectory.
Further compounding the problem is the behaviour of some dog owners. Surveys suggest that one in ten owners admit their dog does not have reliable recall, while one in twenty acknowledge that their pet has chased livestock. Such admissions point to a disconnect between perception and reality — a theme frequently echoed by those on the front line.
One Dorset farmer, who asked to remain anonymous, described a familiar and frustrating pattern. “I often hear dog walkers say their dogs would never harm anything,” they said, “only to see their pets chasing sheep, cattle, deer, or anything that triggers their natural hunting instincts.”
Their comments underline a key issue: even well-meaning owners may underestimate the instincts of their animals. In rural environments, where livestock are often in open fields and separated from footpaths by little more than a fence or hedge, the potential for incidents is ever present.
For farmers, the consequences can be both financial and deeply emotional. Livestock attacks frequently result in serious injury or death to animals, as well as stress-induced complications such as miscarriages among pregnant ewes. Beyond the immediate loss, there is also the lasting psychological toll on those who depend on these animals for their livelihood.
Sergeant Skinner, from Dorset Police’s Rural Crime Team, acknowledged the scale of the problem locally. While noting that most dog owners act responsibly, he said incidents of livestock worrying remain a persistent issue, particularly during certain times of year.
“These incidents have both a financial and emotional impact on farmers in our rural communities,” he said. “We welcome any additional powers to tackle offences of this nature.”
He stressed that prevention remains the priority. Police continue to urge dog owners to take simple but essential precautions: keeping dogs on leads near livestock, ensuring they are under control at all times, and remaining vigilant, especially during lambing season, when animals are at their most vulnerable.
The new measures also extend beyond livestock, recognising the broader environmental impact of uncontrolled dogs. Dorset’s countryside is home to a variety of protected species, including deer and ground-nesting birds, both of which are particularly susceptible to disturbance.
Sidwick highlighted this wider ecological dimension, warning that chasing wildlife is not only irresponsible but also illegal. “Chasing or disturbing wildlife can cause lasting damage to local ecosystems,” he said, calling on dog owners to play their part in protecting the natural environment.
The message from authorities, farmers, and campaigners is consistent: responsible dog ownership is key. Simple actions, using a lead, sticking to designated paths, and ensuring dogs respond to commands, can make the difference between a peaceful countryside and a scene of distress and loss.
There is also an appeal for honesty and accountability. Sergeant Skinner urged owners whose dogs are involved in incidents to report them immediately to police, farmers, or a vet. Prompt reporting can help mitigate harm and ensure appropriate action is taken.
Ultimately, the new legislation represents both a warning and an opportunity. For those who fail to control their dogs, the consequences will now be more severe than ever. But for the vast majority of responsible owners, it serves as a timely reminder of the role they play in safeguarding the countryside.
As Dorset moves into the busier spring and summer months, with more people taking to footpaths and rural spaces, the success of these reforms may well depend not just on enforcement but also on awareness and a collective commitment to respecting the delicate balance between people, animals, and the land they share.
