State regulation for breeding dogs in Australia varies in each state, but there are a few general guidelines/laws that breeders should be aware of.
Firstly it’s important to know that depending on how many breeding dogs you have, breeding can be considered a commercial activity in Australia and that you’re obliged to comply with the relevant legislation and animal welfare regulations that ensures things such as living conditions, food/water access and overall health and welfare of animals.
Most states have their own specific laws/regulations in place to govern this so it’s important to understand which apply to you and your responsibilities as a breeder based on where you live.
In Victoria, you can be considered either a micro breeder, recreational breeder or a commercial breeder. Depending on which category you fall into there's a different set of rules that apply.
A micro breeder is anyone with 1-2 female fertile female dogs who breeds to sell. If you’re a member of an applicable organisation such as Dogs Victoria with up to 10 fertile female dogs, you fall into the category of recreational breeders. If you wish to keep more than 10 fertile females at your facility a Commercial Dog Breeder approval is required. Breeders with between 11 and 50 fertile female dogs must first be registered as a DAB with their local council, after which they can apply to the Minister for Agriculture to obtain commercial dog breeder approval.*
In Queensland, unless you’re already a member of Dogs Queensland, you must register with the Queensland dog breeders register portal if you intend to advertise, sell, give away or supply dogs or puppies. Then, you need to provide a 'supply number' that identifies the registered breeder of that dog.
This means you have to register as a dog breeder and provide a supply number, even if:
- you only want to breed 1 litter
- your puppies are well looked after and in a safe environment
- you don't sell the puppies but breed them for family and friends
- your dog has had an unplanned litter.*
In New South Wales, RSPCA NSW inspectors enforce The Animal Welfare Code of Practice – Breeding Dogs and Cats, which dictates the legal requirements for breeding operations. The Code sets standards for the care and management of breeding dogs and cats, including standards for housing, environment, security, animal management, food and water, cleaning and disinfection, transport, health and care, transfer of ownership, and breeding.*
The rules, regulations and processes are vastly different between states, so it’s the responsibility of a breeder to research these rules and familiarise themselves based on where they’re situated.
The Puppies Online breeder code of ethics is based on the regulations and advice of member bodies such as ANKC, PIAA, MDBA and also the various state regulations and is a good summary of the consistent guidelines of each. If you’re looking for help getting familiar with your local rules and regulations feel free to reach out to our team for guidance on what rules apply based on your location. You can email us at hello@puppiesonline.com.au or send us a message through the contact form.
Source:
