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Livestock & countryside

Last updated September 21, 2026

Sheep worrying is a criminal offence, a farmer may lawfully shoot a dog attacking stock, and worrying does not need contact — chasing is enough.

Lambing changes everything

Roughly February to April depending on the flock and how far north you are. A field that was empty all winter becomes the worst place in the county for a pack of dogs.

If cattle charge you

Let the dog off the lead and get to the edge of the field. Cattle chase the dog; a dog on a lead brings them to you. It is the opposite of the instinct and it is the advice that saves people.

1
List where you actually walkYour patch, not a route plan.
2
Record what is in eachSheep, cattle, ground-nesting birds.
3
Mark the lead-only onesSo a stand-in knows which gate not to go through.

FAQ

Is dog walking licensed?
Not in England under the 2018 animal activities regulations — day care and home boarding are. Limits on dogs per walker usually come from local Public Space Protection Orders instead, so check your own council.

What about ground-nesting birds?
March to July on moor, heath and dune. Stay on the paths.