Livestock attacks and worrying

Information and advice about livestock worrying and attacks, what Police Scotland are doing about it and what the law says.

What are livestock attacks and worrying?

Livestock attacks and worrying is the phrase used when a dog attacks or worries livestock animals in rural and farmland areas.

This crime usually takes place in the countryside and is a particular problem when dogs, even those that are well trained, are off their leads or are roaming without an owner or person in charge with them. In doing so, they often scare or attack livestock animals.

Whilst many owners are unaware of the impact their dogs are having on livestock, it is their responsibility to ensure attacks and worrying don't happen. They should ensure their dog doesn't disturb or attack these animals, otherwise there are consequences under the law if it does occur.

Sheep with red mark on hill in the countryside

Some examples of livestock worrying include:

a dog chasing livestock in a manner that could cause injury or suffering,
the stress caused to the animal by the presence of the dog, could, in the case of female livestock, cause abortion or miscarriage,
livestock becoming desperate in their attempts to escape and injure themselves in doing so,
dogs who chase ewes or lambs may cause them to separate from their mothers, later dying of starvation or hyperthermia.

Reporting livestock attacks and worrying

Call 999 if the crime is ongoing and animals are being injured. To report a crime which isn't ongoing call 101 or submit an online Contact Us form.

What are Police Scotland doing about it?

Police Scotland is committed to tackling rural crime and, in particular, livestock attacks and worrying. We chair, drive and focus activity for the Scottish Partnership Against Rural Crime (SPARC).

This partnership consists of over 20 relevant rural organisations including NFU Scotland, Scottish Land and Estates, Scottish Crofting Federation and NFU Mutual, coming together to proactively prevent, reduce and tackle rural crime.

Picture of 4x4 grey coloured vehicle with SPARC text on side

It also works to raise awareness of rural crimes and ensure the public is informed in what they can do to help.

Livestock attacks and worrying and the law

The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) (Scotland) Act 2021 came into force on 5 November 2021 to tackle the issue of out of controls dogs attacking and worrying livestock.

Under this law, the term "livestock" is wide ranging and includes cattle, sheep, goats, swine (pigs/boars), horses, camelids (alpacas/lamas), ostriches, farmed deer, enclosed game birds or poultry.

What are the consequences of livestock attacks and worrying?

Under this new law, owners of dogs that attack or worry livestock can be fined up to £40,000 or even sent to prison for up to 12 months.

Advice for dog owners and land managers

Dog owners

It's important for dog owners to be aware that livestock are valuable assets and any harm to them could significantly affect the livestock owners livelihood.

There's a number of things owners can do to reduce the chances of their dog committing a livestock attack or worrying crime.

When in the countryside, be wary of your dog approaching other animals. Try to stop your dog coming into contact with livestock. Remember, in the countryside, it may not always be obvious when animals are around.

Picture of Highland Cow facing camera in a green field

If you're in an area where livestock are nearby, always keep your dog in your sights and maintain control over them. If you can't guarantee this, use a lead.

It's important to be aware that under certain circumstances, land owners can shoot your dog if it is attacking or causing distress to their animals.

Land managers

There's a number of things you can do to minimise the threat of your livestock becoming a victim of worrying and attacks.

Appropriate signage can make walkers in the area aware of their responsibilities and can suggest alternative routes if you're worried of an attack or worrying.

You'll also need to think about public access near your land and any risks that this can cause to your animals.

More information

You can find out more about SPARC on their Facebook and Twitter pages.

Below are a list of Police Scotland partners:

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