Big change as dog law 'extended to roads and paths'

Big change as dog law 'extended to roads and paths'Dog owners are being warned about a major dog law change that could see them hit with unlimited finesCommentsLifestyleSteven Smith Content Editor00:45, 18 Apr 2026View 3 ImagesThe law is being extended and fines are now unlimited(Image: Nickbeer via Getty Images)Dog owners are being alerted about a significant legal change that could result in them facing unlimited fines. The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025 officially took effect on March 18, 2026, introducing some of the most substantial updates to countryside regulations in decades.‌The alert comes as extended daylight hours and milder temperatures encourage more people to venture outdoors for walks. Under the new legislation, which is applicable in England and Wales, the previous £1,000 maximum penalty has been scrapped, meaning courts can now impose unlimited fines on owners whose dogs are discovered to have worried livestock.‌Crucially, "livestock worrying" doesn't simply mean an attack; it encompasses chasing animals or causing them fear or stress, even without any physical injury. Simultaneously, police have been granted enhanced powers to investigate incidents.‌Officers can now seize and detain dogs suspected of involvement, enter premises with a warrant and gather evidence, including obtaining DNA samples or mouth impressions to assist in identifying the dog responsible. For numerous owners, it's a development that feels considerably more severe than previously.View 3 ImagesDog owners need to take care(Image: Pexels)Michael Nelson, from Kennel Store, said: "A lot of people still think this law only applies if a dog actually attacks or injures an animal, but that's not the case. Even something as simple as chasing livestock can be enough.‌"Owners often say their dog is friendly and wouldn't hurt anything and that might be true in most situations. But around livestock, instinct can take ove...