Farmer shoots dog after it kills 10 of his sheep

Police say dogs should be kept on a lead when crossing farm land Credit: ITV West Country

A Gloucestershire farmer shot a dog after it attacked sheep and lambs in his field.

The dog, an Alsatian, was shot after it attacked and killed sheep and lambs on a farm in Wotton Under Edge.

Farmers are entitled to shoot dogs under the Animals Act 1971 in order to protect their livestock from being killed.

Farmers can shoot dogs to protect their livestock Credit: ITV West Country

The dog’s owner has been traced and an agreement on compensation and damages is being reached.

Dog walkers are advised to always keep their dogs on a lead when crossing farm land, to stay to the designated footpath or right of way and to ensure that all gates are properly secured after they have been used.