Livestock Attacks Cost to UK Farmers £1.95 Million in 2025
Rural communities are facing a growing threat from dog attacks on farm animals. According to
NFU Mutual reports 2025, livestock worrying caused an estimated £1.95 million in losses, a 10 % increase from 2024.
A survey of 1,407 dog owner’s highlights worrying trends: over 57 % let their dogs the off lead in the countryside, 1 in 10 dogs have no recall, 1 in 20 have chased livestock, and 72 % of owners are not taking steps to prevent chasing.
Even calm or friendly dogs can chase livestock, and the stress alone can seriously harm or even kill pregnant ewes and newborn lambs. Rob Taylor, NPCC’s livestock attacks lead and NRCN Board Member, stresses that responsible ownership is key to preventing these incidents.
With countryside visits set to rise, the NRCN and our partners are encouraging:
Keep dogs on a lead anywhere livestock may be present
Let go of the lead if chased by cattle, for your own safety
Never let dogs roam unsupervised, even in gardens near livestock fields
Report any incidents to the police or local farmers immediately
Recognise that all dogs can chase or injure livestock, regardless of size or breed
Together, we can prevent distressing and costly attacks this season.
The upcoming Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act gives police stronger powers in England and Wales. Everyone can help by keeping dogs on a lead near livestock, supervising them, and reporting incidents immediately.
Together, we can help prevent distressing and costly attacks this season.