Canine Law - Information Guide for dog owners.

Dog Law - Breeding of Dogs:

The Breeding of Dogs Act 1991 and the Breeding and Sale of Dogs (Welfare) Act 1999 apply to England, Wales & Scotland.

A breeder producing more than five litters of puppies per year for sale is legally obliged to obtain a licence from their Local Authority.

The premises must be inspected by a Vet and a Local Authority Officer.

The Local Authority will decide whether to grant a licence and will enforce the requirements of the Act.

The Act of 1999 states that;

• bitches are not mated until they are at least one year old

• no more than one litter per year is allowed and

• no more than six litters in the dogs lifetime is allowed

• accurate breeding records must be kept and made available for inspection and

• puppies must wear a visible sign of identity and are not be sold to their final home before they are eight weeks of age

Local Authorities have extended powers under the 1991 Act to obtain a warrant to enter any premises, excluding a private dwelling house, where it believes dog breeding business is ongoing.

The 1999 Act introduced stiffer penalties including imprisonment.

Legislation:

The Breeding of Dogs Act 1991

Breeding and Sale of Dogs (Welfare) Act 1999

Please Visit Our Dog Law Section Here