UFU renews responsible dog ownership call as £152,000 of livestock killed or injured in NI dog attacks

The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) has renewed its call for responsible dog ownership after new figures revealed that farm animals in Northern Ireland worth an estimated £152,000 were severely injured or killed in dog attacks during 2025.

The warning comes ahead of the busy lambing season, a critical period for sheep farmers, when pregnant ewes and newborn lambs are particularly vulnerable.

Figures released by NFU Mutual show a 30% decrease in the financial cost of livestock attacks compared to the previous year. However, the UFU has stressed that even one incident is one too many.

Lambing season pressures intensify impact of dog attacks

UFU deputy president John McLenaghan said the financial figures do not fully reflect the damage caused.

“Behind every figure is a farming family who has had to deal with the devastating aftermath of a dog attack. For many sheep farmers across Northern Ireland, lambing season is already an intense and demanding period.

“Discovering dead or injured animals following a dog attack is heartbreaking and deeply distressing. The £152,000 figure represents significant losses, but it does not capture the emotional toll, the trauma to livestock, or the long-term impact on flock performance.”

The Union has repeatedly warned that livestock worrying remains a serious and persistent issue across rural and semi-rural areas in Northern Ireland. Incidents frequently occur when dogs are off lead, escape from gardens, or are allowed to roam unsupervised.

‘Any dog can cause harm’, says UFU

Mr McLenaghan continued:

“Too many dog owners still believe their pet would never chase or harm livestock. The reality is very different. Regardless of breed or temperament, any dog can cause harm. Even if there is no physical contact, the stress alone can cause pregnant ewes to abort lambs or young lambs to become separated from their mothers.

“The responsibility lies firmly with dog owners. If you are walking in the countryside and there are sheep or cattle in nearby fields, your dog must be always kept on a lead and under control.”

The UFU is urging dog owners to take extra precautions when visiting the countryside, particularly during lambing season, when livestock are at their most vulnerable.

Livestock worrying is a criminal offence

The Union also reminded the public that livestock worrying is a criminal offence under Northern Ireland legislation. It has previously called for stronger enforcement and greater awareness of the consequences of irresponsible dog ownership and is currently working with other stakeholders on proposals to strengthen legislation.

Mr McLenaghan added:

“We continue to engage with authorities and local councils to ensure incidents are reported and followed up appropriately. Where attacks happen, they must be reported to the local dog warden and the PSNI so that action can be taken.

“Farmers should not have to live with the fear of repeat attacks. Stronger awareness, responsible ownership and consistent enforcement are essential if we are to see meaningful progress.”

As lambing season begins across Northern Ireland, the UFU has reiterated its message that keeping dogs under control near livestock is not only a matter of good practice but a legal requirement — and one that can prevent significant financial loss and distress for farming families.