Dog breeding

If you sell puppies and earn more than £1,000 a year (net), you will need a dog breeding licence — regardless of whether you’re a hobby breeder, show home, or breeding a family pet. This is known as the business test.

On your first application, a Council officer and a vet will carry out an inspection. This visit will incur a charge. Future inspections may not require a vet unless there are welfare concerns.

Before applying, consider the following:

• Can you keep all puppies if they do not sell?
• Do you have the financial means to cover emergency vet care (e.g. C-sections, cleft palates, hernias)?
• Have you researched your breed thoroughly?
• Has your dog been tested for hereditary conditions?
• Do you understand what a coefficient of inbreeding (COI) is?

For advice or to discuss your circumstances, contact the animal licensing officer at: Food.team@colchester.gov.uk

Apply for a licence to breed dogs