Dog owners visiting Dartmoor National Park have been warned that farmers are legally permitted to shoot pets that threaten livestock. The warning comes as the spring and summer months bring increased risks of livestock worrying, particularly during lambing and ground-nesting bird season.
According to the Dartmoor National Park Authority, it is lawful for farmers to shoot dogs to protect their livestock. The authority stated: 'Livestock worrying – when a dog chases, attacks or causes distress to livestock – is a serious concern and can have devastating impacts for the animals and their keepers.'
Last year, a dog attack in Devon killed 19 ewes and 24 lambs, prompting an investigation. Across the UK, canine attacks on livestock caused damages approaching £1.8 million in 2024. The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025, which received Royal Assent in December 2025 and takes effect on 18 March 2026, strengthens legal protections for farmers.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) explained that livestock worrying can occur even without physical contact, as fear and stress alone can harm or kill animals. The updated legislation modernises the 1953 Act, giving police and courts stronger tools to respond to incidents.
Dartmoor National Park advises dog owners to keep pets on a lead from 1 March to 31 July, and at all times near livestock. Loose dogs can also disturb ground-nesting birds such as skylarks, meadow pipits and curlews, causing them to abandon nests. Incidents of livestock worrying should be reported to police on 101 or the Dartmoor Livestock Protection Society.
