A new law regarding the breeding and sale of puppies was introduced by the English government in October 2018. Its goal is to safeguard the welfare of puppies and their guardians. Anyone who: breeds three or more litters of puppies in a 12-month period (unless they don’t sell any of the puppies) is subject to the rules
A Risk Rating structure around the Regulations will mean 1-3 year licences depending on your standard of care.
When issuing licenses, a risk-based system will be used, and license holders will be given a star rating to show their standards. In addition to ensuring that the applicant satisfies the requirements outlined in the Regulations, additional factors will be considered, including the applicant’s experience, the size of their facility, and any feedback from puppy buyers.
Those who receive a high rating will undergo inspections up to three years less frequently because they are deemed to pose a lower risk, making it less expensive for them to obtain a license. Those who have a low rating and are considered to be a higher risk will continue to be subject to yearly inspections and fees. This method of rewarding those who uphold high standards of care is considered to be fair.
The Pet Vending Schedule which is separate from the Dog Breeding Schedule sets out that those who are not breeders but are in the business of selling dogs will require a licence.
Not only will breeders need to have a license; anyone transporting puppies will also need one, and anyone who charges a fee or commission for a puppy will be detained. Capturing traders and those who don’t operate to the same standards as the good breeders is a top priority. Additionally, the Government is debating whether to outlaw all third-party puppy sales, which might restrict future puppy sales to breeders only.
How many litters can a dog have legally UK?
Anyone who “breeds three or more litters of puppies in any 12-month period” is now required to obtain a license, according to the new scope. “The new Regulations lower the requirement for a license from 5 litters to 3 litters.”
FAQ
How many times can you legally breed a dog UK?
If they breed three or more litters of puppies in any 12-month period, unless they can demonstrate that none of the puppies have been sold as either puppies or adults, they must have a license.
How many litters can a dog have in lifetime in UK?
Although a dog is capable of having more than ten litters in her lifetime, the majority of dogs are unable to have this many healthy litters while also maintaining their own health. When a female’s litter size drastically decreases, it is a clear indication that she should be retired.
How many litters is it safe for a dog to have in a year?
Maximum Number of Litters for Female Dogs A female dog may have up to three litters annually. Female dogs do not experience menopause; they can go into heat between the ages of six and twelve months. A dog could have up to 30 litters, assuming they live to an average age of 11.
Do I need a licence to breed dogs UK?
Get in touch with your neighborhood council to request a dog breeding permit in England. If you run a business that breeds dogs and promotes them for sale, you need this license. breed three or more litters in a year and sell any puppies from any of those litters