When does the new law start and where does it apply?

The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025 takes effect on 18 March 2025. It applies across England and Wales. The changes focus on dog attacks, chasing, or causing stress to farm animals, with tougher penalties and wider police powers to investigate and enforce incidents on or near farmland.

What counts as livestock ‘worrying’ under the law?

Worrying includes attacking, chasing, or otherwise causing distress to farm animals. That can lead to injury, miscarriages, or disrupted care of young. The safest approach is to keep dogs on a short lead near livestock, follow signs on access points, and avoid fields with animals during sensitive periods like lambing.

Are fines really unlimited and who decides the amount?

Yes, courts can issue unlimited fines upon conviction under the amended law. Magistrates or judges set the amount based on case facts, harm caused, and mitigation. Owners should expect higher legal and claim costs if incidents occur, so prevention, clear record-keeping, and prompt reporting will matter more than before.

How should insurers and farms respond to the change?

Insurers can review rural rating, tighten wording on dog-related losses, and improve evidence requirements. Farms should enhance signage, plan grazing away from busy paths when feasible, and document near misses and incidents. Quick police reporting and solid records help recovery efforts and support fair outcomes in claims or prosecutions.

Law and Government

February 11: England & Wales Dog-Walking Fines Soar—Insurer Risk

ByDanny Kontos February 12, 2026February 12, 2026

From 18 March 2025, wales dog walking fines escalate under the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025. The law brings unlimited fines and wider police powers in England and Wales to tackle livestock worrying. For investors, this raises liability exposure for rural insurers and farm risk managers as lambing season begins. We outline how wales dog walking fines interact with policy wordings, what enforcement means on the ground, and the practical steps owners and underwriters can take now.