Lambing Season: Keeping Dogs Safe Around Sheep
Spring in Oxfordshire is a beautiful time of year - but it’s also lambing season. Across West Oxfordshire and the surrounding countryside, farmers are welcoming newborn lambs into their flocks. While it’s a lovely sight on rural walks, it’s also a time when dogs can unintentionally cause serious harm.
Even the most gentle, well-trained dog can trigger panic in sheep. Ewes with young lambs are particularly vulnerable, and stress alone can lead to injury, miscarriage, or lambs becoming separated from their mothers.
Here’s how to keep everyone safe.
🐑 Why Lambing Season Is High Risk
- Sheep see dogs as predators - instinct takes over.
- Pregnant ewes can miscarry if chased or frightened.
- Lambs can be injured very easily.
- Farmers are legally entitled to protect their livestock.
Even if your dog “just wants to play,” sheep don’t know that.
🦮 Practical Tips for Walking Dogs Near Livestock
Keep your dog on a lead
Between late winter and spring, leads are strongly advised wherever sheep are present, even if your dog normally has excellent recall.
Be extra cautious around fields with lambs
If you can, choose an alternative route.
Check gates are secure
Many livestock incidents happen when dogs slip into fields through open gates.
Work on recall training
Reliable recall is essential in rural areas year-round.
Use a long line if needed
This allows some freedom while keeping control.
⚖️ A Legal Reminder
Under UK law, farmers can take action if a dog is worrying livestock. “Worrying” includes chasing or being loose in a field with sheep - it doesn’t require physical contact. Keeping your dog under control protects them as much as it protects the sheep.
💚 From a Welfare Perspective
We often see the emotional aftermath when things go wrong - for farmers and for dog owners. These situations are distressing for everyone involved and entirely preventable.
With a lead, awareness, and a little planning, you can still enjoy Oxfordshire’s beautiful countryside safely during lambing season.
If you’re ever unsure about safe rural walking, or you’d like advice on training, behaviour, or general spring health checks, we’re always happy to help.
Tribe Mobile Vets Compassionate veterinary care in the comfort of your own home, across Oxfordshire.
