British farmers have seen dog attacks on livestock rise by a staggering 50% in the first quarter of 2021, new shocking figures have found.
According to NFU Mutual, numbers are rising sharply due to the increase in 'unruly lockdown puppies' bought last year. Despite our four-legged friends proving endless joy, the study found many owners have a lack of awareness about how dogs should behave around livestock.
Research carried out with more than 1,200 dog owners found:
- 88% of people said they now walk their dog in the countryside
- 64% said they let their dog run free off the lead
- 50% admitted their pet doesn't always come back when called
Sadly, dog attacks on sheep and cattle cost the farming industry up to £1.3 million last year, after lockdown and staycations led to more Brits exploring the countryside.
Farmer Paul Thorp, who lost livestock in dog attacks, said his sheep were horrifically injured, with many being put down. "Over the years, dog attacks have hit us hard for a while and then died down again before returning," he told The Times.
"A lot of people just don't seem to understand that it's a dog's instinct to chase sheep, and that even if they don't attack, the stress can lead to ewes losing their lambs. It's just the small number of people who don't keep their dogs under control who are responsible for these attacks."
Last month, the NFU welcomed a government announcement to tackle livestock and offer greater protection to farmers. After years of campaigning, the changes introduced in the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill have received significant public support.
"There's a lack of awareness among dog owners about what their pets are capable of and our research found only 40% accepted their dog could injure or harm livestock," Rebecca Davidson, rural affairs specialist at NFU Mutual, said.
"Even if a dog doesn't make physical contact, the distress of the chase can also cause sheep to die, miscarry and separate lambs from their mothers. Farm animals are also being chased into danger – drowning in rivers, falling from cliffs and getting their necks trapped in fencing."
Heading outside might be a great tonic for the soul, but it's vital owners know how to look after their dogs when around livestock.
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Waterproof dog coats: 13 gorgeous styles to keep your pup cosy and dry
Keep your pups snug and dry with this bright red raincoat from Joules. A little rain never stopped the fun and games!
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Danish Design Blue 2-in-1 Ultimate Dog Coat
Superb for both the winter and warmer months, this breathable 2-in-1 coat has a removable fleece inner lining, waterproof outer shell and a light reflective beading and fastening strap, too.
We love this waxed cotton version of Barbour's best-selling classic dog coat — and we're certain your pup will love it too. Available in a range of sizes, it has an underbody strap and a riptape-fastening neck to ensure a comfortable fit.
Reflective and reversible, this cosy jacket is great for evening walks. It has an inner layer with down cotton, plus is lightweight, splashproof, windproof and snowproof.
READ MORE: Light-up dog collars: 11 styles to keep your pups safe and seen
Hugo & Hudson - Orange & Navy Puffer Jacket
Keep your furry friend cosy with this bright orange puffer jacket. As well as being incredibly warm, it has a high-quality stuffing, zip fastening and can be easily machine washed after a muddy walk.
Got a dachshund? This custom-fit waterproof coat will keep these tiny pups warm in cold, rainy or snowy weather. Plus, the added pop of yellow will help to keep them seen.
With a reflective trim for visibility in low light, this charcoal grey dog jacket is wonderfully both fleece lined and waterproof.
In a stylish hue, this water-repelling dog coat has been made with a reflective trim for nighttime walks and a warm fleece lining.
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Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
