Debate pack: Welfare of young dogs bred for sale

Animal welfare is a devolved matter. A range of legislation applies to the breeding of dogs. For example, in England and Scotland, the Breeding of Dogs Act 1973 and the Breeding and Sale of Dogs (Welfare) Act 1999 require the licencing of dog breeders. ‘Hobby’ breeders who produce less than 5 litters in any 12 month period are not required to have a licence. In Wales the Animal Welfare (Breeding of Dogs) (Wales) Regulations 2014 apply.

The UK Government is currently consulting on changes to the regulation of dog breeders and other animal establishments in England.

Some animal welfare organisations have raised concerns about animal welfare in the dog breeding sector. Concerns have been raised in particular about the international trade in puppies and the extent to which licensing arrangements apply to those who sell dogs, including via the internet. There have been calls for changes to legislation and for better enforcement.