There are few better ways to spend a day than following a footpath through green fields and over stiles. But those fields are working landscapes, and the animals that graze them are not background scenery. Cattle, sheep, horses and ponies all share the rights of way network with us, and knowing how to behave around them keeps you, your dog and the livestock safe.
Public footpaths and bridleways often cross farmland. Farmers have a duty to keep paths open, but they also have animals to graze. So you might find yourself walking through a field of cows, past a flock of sheep, or alongside horses in a paddock. Most encounters are calm and uneventful. Trouble comes when walkers panic, dogs chase, or people get between a mother and her young.
The Countryside Code is your guide. It asks you to respect everyone in the countryside, protect the natural environment, and enjoy the outdoors. Around livestock, that means three things: stay calm, keep your distance, and keep your dog under control.
Animals pick up on your energy. If you run, shout or wave your arms, you look like a threat. Instead, walk steadily and quietly. Give livestock as much room as the field allows. If the path is narrow, step to the side and let them pass. Don't try to stroke or feed them — even a friendly-looking cow can be unpredictable, and human food is bad for them.
Never get between a mother and her young. Cows with calves, ewes with lambs, and mares with foals are all protective. If you see a young animal, change your route slightly to give them a wide berth. If livestock block the path entirely, wait patiently. They will usually move on. If they don't, retrace your steps and find an alternative right of way rather than cutting across a field.
Cattle are curious, especially young heifers. They may follow you or trot towards you. This is often inquisitiveness, not aggression. Keep walking calmly. Do not run. If a group approaches, step to the side and let them pass, or turn and walk away at a steady pace.
If you have a dog, keep it on a short lead around cattle. But if cattle start to chase you or your dog, let the dog go. A dog can outrun cattle, and you are safer without a lead tangled around your legs. The dog will usually return once the cattle have lost interest. This advice is in the Countryside Code, and it can feel counterintuitive, but it works.
Be aware of bulls. In England and Wales, bulls of dairy breeds over ten months old should not be kept in a field with a public right of way. Beef bulls may be present, but they must be with cows or heifers and should not be aggressive. If you see a bull and feel uneasy, leave the field by the nearest gate and find another route. Do not assume a bull is friendly because it looks calm.
Sheep are naturally nervous. They will usually run away, but if cornered or with lambs, they can panic. Keep your distance and keep dogs on a lead. Sheep worrying — where a dog chases or attacks sheep — is a serious offence. It can cause ewes to miscarry and lambs to die, and farmers are legally allowed to shoot a dog that is worrying livestock. Even a friendly dog that just wants to play can cause fatal stress.
Horses and ponies are often more relaxed, but they spook easily. Walk past quietly, without sudden movements or flapping coats. Keep dogs close and under control. Don't feed horses — it can cause serious health problems. On a bridleway, horses have right of way, and walkers and cyclists should give way.
Other livestock you might meet include goats, pigs, geese and alpacas. The same principles apply: calm, space, and control. If an animal blocks a gate or stile, give it time to move. Never chase it.
Dogs are welcome on most public rights of way, but they must be under control. The Countryside Code says to keep dogs on a lead around livestock, and on a short lead between 1 March and 31 July when ground-nesting birds are breeding. Even if you have excellent recall, a lead is the safest option around farm animals.
If your dog does chase livestock, call it back immediately and put it on the lead. If it won't return, keep walking and avoid shouting, which can make things worse. Report any incidents to the farmer or landowner if you can.
The Countryside Code is not just a list of rules; it is a way of making sure everyone — walkers, farmers and animals — can enjoy the countryside safely. When you meet livestock, remember to:
Most encounters with livestock are brief and peaceful. A little knowledge and a calm approach go a long way. Walk steadily, give animals space, keep your dog close, and you will both enjoy the day. The countryside is a shared space, and with a bit of care, it stays wonderful for everyone.
The Swift Stile shares practical, down-to-earth guidance on uk countryside walking and rambling for readers across the UK.
Leave A Comment