Dog owners are urged to keep their pets under control in the countryside after a rise in sheep attacks.

The NFU and police are working together as lambing season gets underway.

The increase is believed to be, in part, down to a surge in dog ownership during the coronavirus lockdown.

The most recent NFU Mutual data show that, nationally, the claims costs of dog attacks on farm animals rose to more than £1.8m in 2022.

Cumbrian farmers are also reporting a rise in incidents.

NFU member David Parry, who runs a sheep farm near Wigton, has lost more than eight sheep to dog attacks over the years.

He said: “There was a big rise in dog ownership in lockdown and many people don’t understand what can happen in the countryside when they don’t have control of their dogs. Sadly the situation has been getting worse.

“It does have a financial impact on the business, but the animal welfare issue is the main concern.

“It is really awful to see the animals suffer in this way and it is upsetting for the pet owners who just didn’t expect their dog was capable of such things.”

Livestock worrying includes barking, chasing, biting and killing and is a criminal offence.

Dog owners could be liable for prosecution or a fine. Under the Animals Act 1971, a dog could be shot if caught in the act by a landowner.

Sergeant Amanda McKirdy, of Cumbria Constabulary’s Rural Crime Team, said: “We urge dog owners to keep their pets on leads around livestock.

“The majority of dog owners do take care around livestock but it’s extremely important to follow signs and stick to footpaths. It is also important to check your properties and gardens are secure when you have dogs.”