Dog owners in England face a significant change to walking regulations as the seasonal dog lead law is lifted this month. From July 31, the strict restrictions that have been in place since March 1 will end, but owners risk being hit with a £100 on-the-spot fine if their dog is caught off the lead in Open Access land areas. The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025, which came into effect on 18 March 2026 in England and Wales, underpins these penalties.
What the Law Requires
Under the new rules, it is now illegal for dogs to attack, chase, run at, or cause distress to livestock. The law also grants police new powers to seize dogs believed to pose an ongoing threat to livestock and to enter premises to secure evidence or animal DNA. The restrictions applied from March 1 through to July 31 each year, targeting the peak breeding season for ground-nesting birds, when dogs can unintentionally disturb nests.
Behaviourist Clair Hickson, of Talk to the Paw in South Gloucestershire, advises: "If you know your dog is going to hyper fixate, bark, chase or worse, then you've got to avoid areas where livestock might be."
Impact on Dog Owners
Devon & Cornwall Police highlighted the importance of the seasonal rules, stating earlier this year: "From 1 March until 31 July each year, the breeding season for ground‑nesting birds is at its peak, which makes them especially vulnerable to disturbances from dogs who may unintentionally stumble across their nests. We know most dog walkers do the right thing. But even happy, sociable dogs can startle birds or disturb nesting sites by accident."
The police added: "It's not just the birds, livestock grazing in these open areas, including sheep, cows and horses can also be frightened or injured if dogs are allowed to run free. Responsible dog owners help reduce stress on animals and protect the landscapes we all love."
Community and Enforcement
Rural Affairs Officer Sergeant Julian Fry commented: "The overwhelming majority of owners act very responsibly when walking their dogs, which is fantastic to see. Our aim with these messages and events is to educate the small minority who don't follow best practice so we can bring the number of livestock attacks down. When animals are attacked, injuries are often severe and can cause significant suffering, and they also carry an emotional and financial toll for farmers and landowners. This isn't something police and farmers can fix alone, we need the support of the whole community."
The £100 fine is a fixed penalty notice for those found in breach of the rules. Owners are urged to keep dogs on leads or avoid Open Access land during the restricted period to protect wildlife and livestock.
