Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Bill

A Bill to make provision changing the law about the offence of livestock worrying, including changes to what constitutes an offence and increased powers for investigation of suspected offences; and for connected purposes.

Originating House

House of Commons

Last Updated

29 May 2024

In Plain English

AI-generated

This bill changes the law on livestock worrying by dogs. It clarifies what counts as an offence and gives investigators greater powers to pursue suspected offences, with the aim of better protecting livestock and supporting those who farm or keep animals.

Key Points

It amends the offence of livestock worrying by dogs.
It clarifies what behaviour counts as an offence.
It expands powers for investigating suspected offences.
It covers related purposes as described in the bill (connected aims).
It originated in the Commons and is being considered at the Lords’ first reading, with Commons proceedings, amendments and a Select Committee report published.

Progress

The bill has started in the Commons and has moved to the Lords for its first reading. Commons proceedings, amendments and a Select Committee report have been published, and it is now at the Lords’ initial stage for consideration.

Who is affected?

Livestock farmers and keepersDog ownersRural communities and farm workersPolice and local authorities responsible for enforcementAnimal welfare organisations and charitiesThe wider agricultural sector

Generated 21 February 2026