Please Read The Disclaimer
As we move through 2026, dog owners across Somerset—and the wider UK—are facing some of the most significant legal updates in years. These changes are designed to better protect wildlife, livestock, and public spaces, while placing clearer responsibilities on owners.
Whether you walk your dog on Exmoor, along coastal paths, or through local parks, understanding these rules is essential.
Dog ownership has grown rapidly, and more people are exploring rural areas with their pets. At the same time, incidents involving livestock worrying, wildlife disturbance, and uncontrolled dogs have increased.
In response, the UK government and local councils have introduced tougher laws and clearer enforcement powers in 2026.
The most significant legal change comes from the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025, which came into force in March 2026.
Your dog does not need to bite or injure an animal.
The law now covers:
Chasing livestock
Causing stress or panic
Being loose near farm animals
Attacks or physical harm
Even frightening sheep can lead to injury, miscarriage, or death, making it a serious offence.
Unlimited fines (previously capped)
Police can seize and detain dogs involved
Officers can collect DNA evidence to prove attacks
The law includes incidents on public footpaths and roads
In practical terms, if your dog is out of control near livestock, you could face serious legal consequences—even if no physical contact occurs.
Always use a lead near livestock
Ensure your dog has reliable recall
Follow signage in fields and rural paths
Somerset Council is working toward a county-wide Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) to standardise dog rules across the region.
Instead of different rules in different towns, Somerset aims to introduce:
Clear dog exclusion zones
Areas where dogs must be kept on leads
Stronger enforcement powers across public spaces
Keeping dogs under control at all times
Carrying and using waste bags
Keeping dogs out of children’s play areas
Limits on how many dogs one person can walk
These measures will be supported by clearer signage and more consistent enforcement.
Wildlife protection laws remain a key part of dog ownership responsibilities.
Under legislation such as the Hunting Act 2004:
Hunting wild mammals (such as foxes, deer, and hares) with dogs is largely illegal
Only limited exemptions apply under strict conditions
Allowing your dog to chase wild animals can lead to legal consequences
Disturbing protected species, such as ground-nesting birds, may result in penalties
Saying a dog is “just playing” is not considered a valid defence.
Depending on the offence, penalties may include:
Unlimited fines
Criminal prosecution
Seizure or destruction of the dog
Compensation payments to farmers
Disqualification from owning dogs
Police and enforcement agencies now have stronger powers to investigate incidents and act quickly.
In 2026, the expectations for dog owners are clear.
Keep your dog on a lead near livestock
Follow all local PSPO rules and signage
Prevent your dog from chasing wildlife or farm animals
Always clean up after your dog
Maintain reliable control and recall at all times
These legal updates are intended to protect wildlife, support farmers, and ensure that public spaces remain safe and accessible for everyone.
For responsible dog owners, compliance is straightforward: stay informed, remain vigilant, and maintain control of your dog at all times.
By doing so, you can continue to enjoy Somerset’s countryside while meeting your legal responsibilities.
Information Provided from Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025