Dog law change is now in force and ‘extended to paths and roads’

Dog owners are being warned about a major legal change that could see them face unlimited fines. The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Bill 2025 officially came into force on 18 March 2026, bringing some of the most significant updates to rural regulations in decades.

The warning comes as longer daylight hours and milder temperatures encourage more people to take walks outdoors. Under new legislation in England and Wales, the previous £1,000 cap on fines has been removed, meaning courts can now impose unlimited fines on owners whose dogs are found to be causing anxiety to their animals.

Importantly, “livestock concern” does not just mean an attack; It involves chasing animals or causing them distress or anxiety, even without causing any physical harm. Simultaneously, the police were given increased powers to investigate incidents.

Officers can now capture and detain dogs suspected of being involved, enter properties with a warrant and collect evidence, including taking DNA samples or mouth prints, to help identify the dog responsible. For many business owners, this represents a development that seems much more serious than before.

Michael Nelson, Kennel StoreHe said: “Many people still think that this law only applies if a dog actually attacks or injures an animal, but that is not the case. Even something as simple as chasing farm animals can be sufficient.”

“Owners often say their dogs are friendly and won’t hurt anything, and this may be true in many cases. But in animal husbandry, instinct can kick in very quickly and that’s where the problems start.”

Major dog law change means roads and footpaths are now included

One of the most important changes that caught people off guard is where the legislation will now be applied. Previously focused on farmland, the updated law now covers incidents that occur not only in fields but also on roads, trails and public rights of way near animals.

Michael said: “This is a big change that hasn’t really happened yet. You don’t actually need to walk across a field anymore. If your dog is reacting to animals on a nearby footpath or road you could still be in trouble.”

Legislation has also been revised to reflect the true impact these events can cause. An animal does not need to be physically harmed for a crime to occur; Stress alone can trigger serious consequences, including miscarriage or long-term health complications.

Michael said: “From a distance, a running or barking dog may seem harmless, but for the animals involved it’s a completely different story. They can panic, run and injure themselves very easily.”

He also warned that once an incident occurs, the effects can escalate quickly: “People don’t always realize how serious the incident can become. You could face police intervention, your dog being taken away while they are investigated, and a potentially very significant fine.”

Courts are also given the power to order owners to cover the costs associated with the seizure and care of a detained dog, further increasing the financial burden.

Michael said: “If you’re around livestock, the safest thing you can do is keep your dog on a leash. It’s not about whether your dog is well-trained or friendly. It’s about understanding that any dog ​​can react at the wrong moment.”