Livestock worrying unpunished despite tough legislation

Livestock worrying in Scotland continues largely unpunished, despite tougher laws introduced four years ago, with low conviction rates and minimal fines being dished out. 

Figures from the Scottish government show there were 57 reported incidents of livestock worrying in 2024-2025, with just six people prosecuted and two convictions.

The data was disclosed in response to a parliamentary question from Tim Eagle, MSP for the Highlands and Islands, who sought clarity on the issue.

See also: Scots farmers and police team up to tackle livestock worrying

The figures also show that, of the 24 convictions achieved over the past four years (out of 239 reported cases), the highest recorded fine was just £400.

“The pitiful fines handed out for these incidents are a kick in the teeth for farmers who are being robbed of their livelihoods,” said Mr Eagle.

Despite the low conviction rates, Scotland’s agriculture minister Jim Fairlie described the worrying of livestock by dogs as “completely unacceptable”.

“It is something the Scottish government takes very seriously, recognising the distress and the serious welfare and financial implications it causes. That is why we supported the introduction of the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) (Scotland) Bill,” he said.

Under the law, which came into force on 5 November 2021, dog owners whose pets attack livestock could face fines of up to £40,000 and prison sentences of up to 12 months for the most severe cases.

NFU Scotland president Andrew Connon said: “There are reports of livestock attack incidents across Scotland on a weekly, if not daily basis, so these conviction figures are undoubtedly disappointing to the many farmers and crofters that are relentlessly affected by dog attacks.

“NFU Scotland was integral to passing the Protection of Livestock legislation in 2021. It was a real turning point for the industry that gave farmers and crofters confidence that the devastating impact of livestock attacks would be taken seriously.

“It is, therefore, incredibly frustrating that the legislation, the level of fines and imprisonment, does not seem to have been used to its full effect.”

Mr Connon confirmed that the union is in contact with the Crown Office to understand why conviction numbers are low and will take steps to remedy the issue.