15/03/2026
A little info post as I keep seeing the articles about a change in the laws regarding dog walking. Thats everyone, not just professional dog walkers, but it only applies to England and Wales. Scotland changed its laws in regards to dogs and livestock in 2021, i'll pop a comparison below as I feel its good info anyway, what with lambing season almost upon us.
Key Differences in Scotland
Wider Definition of Livestock: Scotland's law includes additional species such as farmed deer, ostriches, buffalo, and enclosed game birds, along with the cattle, sheep, and camelids protected in England and Wales.
"At Large" in Sheep Fields: In Scotland, it is specifically an offence for a dog to be "at large" (not on a lead or under close control) in a field or enclosure where there are sheep.
Access Rights: Under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, you have a right of responsible access to most land, but you must keep your dog under proper control (usually a short lead) near livestock.
Enforcement History: Scotland introduced these tougher measures nearly five years earlier than England and Wales to combat a rise in attacks
