More than 80 dog attacks on livestock reported in North Wales

With the Easter break approaching and more dog walkers heading to the countryside, farmers are raising renewed concerns after more than 80 dog attacks on livestock were reported to North Wales Police in 2024.

The increase in visitors to rural areas heightens the risk of further incidents, putting livestock at significant risk.

Despite significant industry efforts and awareness campaigns over recent years, dog attacks on livestock remain a major concern for Welsh farmers.

See also: Livestock worrying unpunished despite tough legislation

The Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) is urging visitors to the countryside to act responsibly and prioritise the safety of both animals and themselves this Easter.

“These attacks are not mere numbers – they inflict devastating trauma on livestock and further economic strain and stress on farmers,” said FUW regional vice-president Anwen Hughes.

Beyond fatalities and severe injuries, the stress alone can trigger miscarriages in ewes or lambs to become separated from their mothers, Mrs Hughes added.

Cost to industry

The overall cost of livestock attacks to the industry in Wales has, however, fallen by 64%, according to figures from NFU Mutual, which highlight a drop from £883,00 in 2023 to £314,000 in 2024.

The union is also reminding visitors to the Welsh countryside to keep their dogs on a lead, especially between 1 March and 31 July – even if there is no livestock on the land.

Visitors should also follow the Countryside Code, pay close attention to and obey any signs indicating livestock presence or restrictions on dog access,. and stick to rights of way and clearly defined paths. 

Sgt Peter Evans, from North Wales Police’s Rural Crime Team, said: “Responsible dog ownership is key in tackling these awful incidents, which are far too common.

“Please act responsibly by always keeping your dog on a lead in the countryside, or if left at home alone, that the house or garden are secure.”

A dog’s owner is the only person who can prevent an attack from happening, added Sgt Evans, stressing that people may have to “pay the ultimate price if you cannot control your animal”.

His advice to dog owners is if their dog has escaped in a rural area, they should contact the police as early as possible so local farmers and landowners can be alerted.

The law

The Dogs Protection of Livestock Act (1953) makes it an offence to allow a dog to worry livestock and can be punished with a fine of up to £1,000.

Currently, the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Bill is making its way through parliament and includes changes to what constitutes an offence, and increased powers for investigation of suspected offences.  

FUW president Ian Rickman said: “The FUW continues to lobby for greater police and legal powers to deal with dog attacks on livestock and the devastating impact they continue to have on Welsh farmers.”

Wales Rural & Wildlife Police crime coordinator, Rob Taylor, added: “Sadly, the police in Wales witness the devastation of livestock attacks by dogs on a daily basis.

“We fully understand the profound impact such attacks have on our farming communities, as well as the distress it causes for the dogs involved, who may be euthanised following a court order or even shot at the scene.”