Number of dog attacks on livestock fall for first time since 2012

The reduction has been attributed to initiatives such as FG’s Take the Lead campaign which raises awareness among dog owners in the national media and warning signs being visible throughout the countryside.

Data from 30 out of the UK’s 45 police forces which responded to FG’s Freedom of Information request showed there were 805 incidents of dogs chasing, attacking or killing sheep in 2019, down from 1,164 in 2018 and 1,047 in 2017.

However, farm groups warned while the results were encouraging, there was still more work to be done, with NFU Mutual estimating the cost to the farming industry at £1.2 million (down 0.3 per cent on 2018).

Lockdown

The insurer has also predicted a rise in attacks in the first quarter of 2020, with walkers ’unfamiliar with the countryside’ taking to rural areas to exercise during the coronavirus lockdown.

Farmers Union of Wales senior policy officer Hazel Wright said: "While this reduction is welcome news, one attack on livestock is one too many.

"The laws covering dog attacks on livestock must be updated to fit the seriousness of the offence and we continue to push for legislative change in order to further protect our members and to help drive a further decline in the number of dog attacks."

Wyn Evans, NFU Cymru ivestock board chairman, urged people to put their dogs on a lead at all times when around livestock, adding: "We need the cooperation of the public to help to eliminate sheep worrying, and ask responsible walkers and dog owners to report those who transgress."