Lambing season: why keeping dogs under control matters more than ever

Lambing season is when months of preparation come down to a few critical weeks. Ewes are giving birth, newborn lambs are finding their feet, and we are working around the clock to make sure both survive those crucial early days. It’s also the time when one simple mistake – a dog running loose through a field – can cause serious problems.

Sheep are naturally nervous animals, and when frightened they run. During lambing season that panic can scatter a flock in seconds. Dogs running loose amongst ewes and lambs or heavily pregnant ewes can have devastating, and often unseen, effects. Mothers and lambs may be separated, and ewes could abort. What may seem like a harmless moment to a dog owner can quickly have shocking consequences - affecting animal welfare, farmers’ finances, and their mental health. I once witnessed a flock chased by a dog until the sheep panicked and ran towards to cliff. It’s a scene that stays with you.

And situations like this are far more common than many people realise - which is why responsible access matters.

Scotland’s access rights are something we are immensely proud of. They allow people to explore some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world – and we want that.

But those rights come with trust and a shared responsibility. For dog owners, the advice is simple: keep dogs under close control near livestock.

That usually means putting them on a lead. Where possible, it’s wise to avoid fields where sheep and lambs are present. We often put up temporary signs during lambing season to highlight livestock in nearby fields or suggest an alternative route. When it comes to cows and calves too, they are best avoided. Mother cows can be very protective of their calves and may approach if they feel threatened. If this happens, it is best to calmly move away. If cows begin to chase your dog, dropping the lead and moving to safety is recommended, as the dog will usually be able to outrun them.

Livestock worrying continues to be a concern across Scotland. The law also reflects the seriousness of the issue. Owners who allow their dogs to chase livestock can face fines of up to £40,000 in the most severe cases, as well as potential prison sentences of up to 12 months. Farmers also have the legal right to act if livestock are threatened, though this is always a last resort.

Come out and enjoy the countryside, the impacts of being outdoors are incredible. But for us, it’s also a working environment, and this is one of our most intense, and crucial, times of year. Often, it’s a simple as just taking a minute to assess a field before you walk through. We want to remain proud that Scotland’s countryside is shared by farmers, walkers and visitors from around the world. Respecting livestock during lambing season helps protect animal welfare, your own safety, and ensure that everyone can continue to enjoy these landscapes responsibly.

Duncan Macalister is Vice President of NFU Scotland and coastal farmer in Glenbarr on the west coast of the Kintyre peninsula