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.

What counts as an offence?

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.

What has changed?

• 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.

What you should do:

• 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.

What this means

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

Typical PSPO rules include:

• 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

What this means for dog walkers:

• 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.

Essential rules to follow:

• 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

Information Provided from Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025