Mixed reaction to new rules around the restraining of farm dogs when they're being transported on the open road.

From October, farmers could be fined if their dogs aren't tied up or in a cage on the back of utes.

ATVs - or quad bikes - and motorbikes are exempt from the rule, a call which has Federated Farmers confused.

Spokesman Miles Peterson told Mike Hosking he hopes common sense will be used in some situations.

"I guess if you're crossing your road from one side of your farm to the other, having your animals tethered for a 25 metre journey would seem a little bit silly."

LISTEN TO MILES PETERSON TALK WITH MIKE HOSKING