08/03/2026
The law has changed, and if you walk your dog in the countryside whether you’re a local or on holiday, this really matters!
From 18 March 2026, the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025 strengthens protection for livestock across England and Wales.
Here’s what you need to know:
- The law now applies on roads and public paths
- More animals are protected (including camelids like alpacas)
- Chasing alone can be an offence
- Courts can issue unlimited fines
- Police have stronger powers
🙋🏽♀️ Here’s the part you really need to hear: livestock incidents don’t happen because someone has a “bad dog.”
They happen because opportunity and animal instinct collide.
Whether it’s prey drive, distance or a sudden distraction… recall disappears.
If countryside walks feel unpredictable or stressful, you’re not alone and you don’t have to just “hope for the best.”
At Dogs on the Sofa, I help guardians and their dogs build reliable recall using ethical training methods.
This means without fear and without force.
Just skills that work in real life.
Send me a message or comment “RECALL” and I’ll share your next step.
