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A new livestock worrying Bill could help to end the misery that farmers, businesses and livestock have faced for many years from dog attacks.

Defra confirmed the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025 received Royal Assent, the last stage before an Act of Parliament becomes law, earlier today (December 18).

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²ÝÁñÉçÇø Guardian's 'Take the Lead' initiative has campaigned, over many years, to highlight the financial and emotional impact that dog attacks can have on farmers, and why changes were needed to deter and safeguard farm businesses.

According to the National Sheep Association, almost four in five (87%) sheep farmers have experienced a dog attack on their flock in the past year, with many reporting multiple incidents.

The Government said the Bill could provide much needed protections to deter and safeguard farm businesses from livestock worrying in the future.

Former Defra Secretary Baroness Therese Coffey had tried to get the Bill passed last year.

However, it failed to pass the relevant stages prior to the General Election when Parliament was dissolved.

Chester South and Eddisbury MP Aphra Brandreth then reintroduced the Bill after the election as a Private Members' Bill which passed readings in the House of Commons and House of Lords.

New powers to tackle livestock worrying

Under new legislation, police can issue unlimited fines, detain dogs which pose a threat to livestock, and take DNA samples to help track down animals and their owners when incidents take place.

The Bill will come into effect on March 18, 2026.

Ms Brandreth, said she was delighted that the Bill has now passed through the House of Lords and become law.

"This has been a long journey, first introduced by Baroness Coffey under the previous Government, and I am thrilled to have taken it forward to finally bring it to this stage," she added.

"This Bill updates legislation to give the police stronger powers to tackle dog attacks on livestock.

Legislation could make a real difference to farmers

"These attacks cause distress and financial loss for farmers and harm to animals, so this change will make a real difference in protecting rural livelihoods and animal welfare.

"I am hugely grateful for the support this Bill has received from across Parliament and from farming groups, the police, and rural communities.

"It has been a long time coming, but I am proud that together we have ensured this important measure has become law."

Victory for farmers

NFU vice-president Rachel Hallos said the Bill is a 'huge victory' for the farming community and a 'moment of real relief' for livestock keepers across the country.

"Attacks by dogs on livestock have devastating impacts on farmers, their families and their animals and we have consistently called for stronger protections to tackle this issue," Ms Hallos added.

"That is why the NFU has long called for tougher laws to reflect the seriousness of this crime, including wider powers for police and increased penalties for irresponsible dog ownership.

"This Act will make a real difference in safeguarding livestock and giving farmers greater confidence, meaning that rather than suffering with the emotional and financial toll of this crime, farmers can instead focus on investing in their business and providing the healthy, affordable and environmentally friendly food for the nation we know the public love."

Farming Minister Dame Angela Eagle said the Bill will help strengthen the UK's proud record for animal health and welfare.

"Livestock worrying can have devastating consequences for farmers and their animals, with sheep, cows and other animals often suffering severe injuries, trauma or often death," Dame Angela added.

 "These stronger protections will help keep livestock safe and give farmers more confidence that incidents can be quickly and properly investigated."

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