April 02, 2026 - 279 views
Dog owners heading into the countryside across North Wales this Easter are being urged to keep their pets under close control, as new figures reveal a sharp rise in attacks on sheep and lambs.
According to NFU Mutual, livestock worrying cost an estimated £1.95 million across the UK in 2025—a 10 per cent increase on the previous year. In Wales alone, the cost rose to around £385,000, highlighting the growing impact on farming communities.
The warning is particularly relevant in North Wales, where lambing season is in full swing across rural areas such as Gwynedd, Conwy County Borough and Denbighshire. Popular walking spots—from coastal paths to upland countryside—often pass through working farmland where sheep and newborn lambs are at their most vulnerable.
Farmers say attacks can be devastating, not just financially but emotionally, with years of work and care lost in moments. Even when dogs don’t physically injure animals, the stress of being chased can cause serious harm, including separating lambs from their mothers.
The issue comes as the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act has come into force, giving police in Wales stronger powers to deal with incidents of livestock worrying. The new law is designed to help tackle a problem that many in rural North Wales say has been getting worse in recent years, particularly during busy holiday periods.
Surveys suggest the problem is often linked to a lack of awareness. While many dog owners enjoy walking in the countryside, a significant number admit letting their dogs off the lead—even when they may not reliably return when called.
With thousands of visitors expected to head to beauty spots across North Wales this Easter—from the hills of Eryri to the coastal paths and farmland beyond—farmers are asking for simple steps to help protect livestock.
Keeping dogs on a lead near sheep, staying aware of surroundings and reporting any incidents quickly can make a crucial difference. Experts also warn that even fields that appear empty may contain animals out of sight.
For many farmers in North Wales, Bank Holiday weekends can be a worrying time, as increased footfall brings a higher risk of incidents. The message this Easter is clear—enjoy the countryside, but respect that it is a working environment, and take responsibility to keep both pets and livestock safe.
