Police investigating after dogs attack sheep in Cottenham
The animals were attacked this morning by dogs thought to be a black German Shepherd with a silvery neck, a medium-sized brown curly-haired dog resembling a Cockapoo or Labradoodle, and a small terrier
Last updated 9th Jan 2026
Warning - this article contains some graphic images of the injured sheep.
Police are investigating after five sheep were injured in an attack by dogs in the Smithy Fen area of Cottenham earlier today.
The incident occurred around 9am (9th January), when a witness heard sheep stampeding across a field and discovered three dogs attacking the animals.
The dogs were described as a black German Shepherd with a silvery neck, a medium-sized brown curly-haired dog resembling a Cockapoo or Labradoodle, and a small terrier.
The witness intervened, causing the dogs to flee towards Lockspit Hall Drove, in the direction of the B1049.
Early checks suggest a total of five sheep were injured, with two potentially suffering fatal wounds.
PC James Lee, of the Rural Crime Action Team, said: “This incident has been very upsetting for the owner of the sheep, and we would like to thank the witness who intervened and stopped any further harm coming to the livestock.
“Livestock worrying is a criminal offence under UK law, and prevention relies on responsible dog ownership and proactive measures by farmers and landowners.
“An investigation has been launched and we would urge anyone with any information, no matter how small or insignificant it may seem, to get in touch with us.
“Please call police on 999 if livestock are being attacked or call 101 to report information after any incidents have taken place. Providing accurate location details, using OS grid references or What3Words in remote areas, is also incredibly helpful.”
Police have now shared advice on responsible dog behaviour around livestock, including:
Keep dogs on a lead near livestock, even if they are well-trained
Follow the Countryside Code, including seasonal rules such as using mandatory leads between 1st March and 31st July
Secure properties by ensuring fences and gates stop dogs escaping
Only allow dogs off the lead in areas free of livestock
Report incidents involving your dog by calling 101 immediately
Farmers and landowners can reduce risk by:
Installing clear signage reminding walkers of legal requirements
Positioning troughs away from footpaths to manage field access
Maintaining fences and using deterrents such as electric fencing
Using CCTV or trail cameras for prevention and evidence collection
Photographing injuries and preserving carcasses to retain DNA evidence
Anyone who has information about the attack that took place this morning is urged to report it through the police website, citing investigation number 35/2056/26. Those without internet access can call 101.