Walking the dog
Worrying of Livestock by Dogs
The Regional Park consists mainly of private land which is heavily grazed by sheep and cattle. Worrying of livestock, in particular sheep, is a very real issue for the farmers and landowners. Each year a substantial number of ewes and lambs are worried, attacked or injured, resulting in the deaths of many these animals.
Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953 (S1)
If a dog worries livestock on any agricultural land the dog owner or person in charge of the dog is guilty of an offence. Worrying includes a dog attacking or chasing livestock, or being loose in a field in which there are sheep.
Animals (Scotland) Act 1987 (S4)
Provides a defence for people who kill or injure a dog worrying livestock, subject to stringent conditions.
The only location within the Regional Park to exercise your dog without fear of coming across sheep, lambs or other livestock, is Hillend Country Park, just off the A702.
The Scottish Outdoor Access Code sets out the guidance which applies to dog owners. Please make sure you are familiar with your requirements. Remember if you can't see your dog, its unlikely it is under your control.