Wales to introduce tighter dog breeding rules
The new law applies to breeders who keep more than three breeding bitches.
Dog breeders in Wales have just three weeks to ensure they meet stricter animal welfare criteria, which comes into force on 30 April.
The new law applies to breeders who keep more than three breeding bitches. Among other requirements, they must ensure a minimum staff ratio of one attendant for every 20 adult dogs.
Breeders must also create socialisation plans for puppies, as well as enhancement and enrichment programmes for all dogs under their care.
Rebecca Evans, the Welsh deputy minister for farming and food, said: "There has been increasing public concern in recent years over the way in which some dogs are bred in Wales, including in licensed premises."
The new regulations aim to raise dog breeding standards and help to eradicate irresponsible practices.
Commenting on the changes, the chief veterinary officer for Wales, Christianne Glossop, said: "The importance of appropriate socialisation of a puppy cannot be underestimated. The experiences a puppy goes through between three and 14 weeks will have a lasting impact on its behaviour in later life.
"These regulations acknowledge the key role breeders play in helping every puppy in their care go on to become good a good family pet."
The Animal Welfare (Breeding of Dogs) (Wales) Regulations 2014 will replace the Breeding of Dogs Act 1973 in Wales.
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
