Farmers Welcome New Police Powers to Address Dog Attacks on Livestock
Anwen Hughes, a farmer from Llanarth near Aberaeron in Ceredigion, described the harrowing experience of discovering lambs torn apart following a dog attack last year.
She expressed support for the new police powers introduced this week aimed at tackling dogs attacking livestock. These powers, effective from Wednesday in Wales and England, update the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953.
The new legislation allows officers to seize dogs, impose costs for kenneling seized animals, and collect DNA samples from animals suspected of attacking stock. Additionally, indefinite fines can be imposed on owners, replacing the current maximum penalty of £1,000.
Statistics Highlight the Scale of Dog Attacks on Livestock
According to Dyfed Powys Police statistics, there were approximately 60 dog attacks on livestock in 2025. North Wales Police reported 90 similar incidents within their jurisdiction during the same year.
The National Farmers' Union (NFU) reported livestock losses valued at £2 million across the UK last year due to dog attacks.
Personal Impact of Dog Attacks on Farmers
Anwen Hughes, Regional Vice-President of the Farmers' Union of Wales, recounted discovering three lambs killed by a dog on her farm in 2025.
"We had a really good run with the lambs, and one evening I came down to find three lambs had been killed by a dog.
"There is a public footpath running under the farm. Locals reported dogs frequently off the lead.
"We know young people were with the dog that was loose, but we have not identified the children who owned the dog."
Significant Psychological Impact on Farmers
Anwen noted she had lost sheep previously due to dog attacks and emphasized the severe psychological toll on farmers.
"There are no words to describe it," she said.
"Consider what dogs are capable of. Imagine going into a field and seeing a lamb or sheep ripped open.
"One lamb had been killed, and I could see its heart beating inside.
"If you were a dog owner seeing that, I think you would think twice about letting your dog off the lead."
Police Efforts and New Legislation to Combat Dog Attacks
Dyfed Powys Police Inspector Matthew Howells, part of the rural crime team, explained it had taken several years to implement the new powers, thanks to the efforts of Wales' Rural and Wildlife Crime Coordinator Rob Taylor.
"We have the power to seize dogs that have chased sheep or cattle. We can obtain warrants to enter homes to take DNA samples or seize dogs suspected of attacks.
"Courts can now impose unlimited fines, which should act as a significant deterrent."
Inspector Howells expressed surprise at some dog owners' attitudes.
"People think their little Rover won't cause harm. The dog might be playing, but unfortunately, they can chase sheep into rivers, cause injuries, and more.
"More education and deterrents are needed. We also offer responsible dog ownership behaviour courses for those not prosecuted."
The new powers extend the legislation to cover attacks on roads and paths and include animals such as llamas and alpacas for the first time.
Strategic Approach to Rural Crime
Dyfed Powys Police have launched a new strategy to tackle rural crime, aiming to strengthen relationships within rural communities.
"It shows we take rural crime seriously," said Inspector Howells.
"We want to reduce rural crime and have officers skilled to handle these issues. We want farmers to know we are here for them."
Farmers Welcome the New Measures
Anwen Hughes welcomed the new powers to address dog attacks on livestock.
"As farmers, we celebrate this. We've been fighting for this through Westminster for 10 years. It's like a light at the end of the tunnel."
