BREEDING DOGS FOR SALE (WELFARE) ACT 1999

Those breeders breeding five or more litters per year will need to be licensed under the new act. However a local authority may still classify a breeder as being commercial- and therefore requiring a licence-even if the person breeds fewer the five litters per year, if in the local authority's opinion that person is deemed as breeding for commercial gain. The new act includes such information as listed below which may effect the registration of puppies.

• A Bitch cannot be mated under 12months of age
• A bitch cannot whelp twice in a 12month period
• A bitch cannot whelp after her 8th birthday (except when approved by the committee)
• A bitch cannot whelp more than 6 litters
• All breeding bitches must be positively identified(micro chipping,tattoo etc)

• A Bitch cannot be mated under 12months of age
• A bitch cannot whelp twice in a 12month period (unless an application is approved by the committee with appropriate veterinary certification (this would normally be required before mating)
• A bitch cannot whelp more than 6 litters
• A bitch cannot whelp after her 8th birthday (except when approved by the committee)
  

In addition to the above, the PSR is only available to those breeders that have registered 4 or less litters in a 12 month period

The above Act came into force in January 2000 and is not retrospective. (Does not apply to mating prior to this date) If a breeder is concerned about their eligibility they are advised to contact their local Environmental Health Authority. A full explanation of the act can be obtained from The Publications Centre, PO Box 276, London, SW8 5DT. Tel. 08706005522