Dog breeding

Last Updated: 4 October 2023

Businesses require a dog breeding licence to breed dogs and advertise their puppies for sale.

For more information on the legislation that came into force on the 1 October 2018, consult the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities on Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018.

Defra guidance on dog breeding

For guidance on dog breeding consult the CFSG Canine and Feline Sector Group legislation and guidance.

How to apply

If you would like to apply for a licence to breed dogs you should fill in the animal welfare application form (DOC 76KB / 7 pages).

The application form should be returned to the Licensing Team, along with any supporting documentation and the relevant fee:

Existing fees (2023/24):

  • new application fee: £246.41 (plus vet fees)
  • variation licence/re-evaluation of rating: £35.66 (plus vet fees)

Where there are a combination of activities, the highest activity fee is applicable.

Existing licence holders will be forwarded the relevant application forms approximately one month prior to the renewal date.

To apply for a variation to a licence or re-evaluation of the star rating, contact the Licensing team.