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New Welsh dog breeding regulations come into force
The requirements will include the introduction of a minimum staff ratio of one attendant for every 20 adult dogs.
Regulations set to improve dog welfare in Wales

Dog breeders in Wales are reminded that new breeding regulations come into force today.

The Animal Welfare (Breeding of Dogs) (Wales) regulations 2014 are part of a package of measures aimed at improving dog welfare in Wales. The requirements will include the introduction of a minimum staff ratio of one attendant for every 20 adult dogs.

Rebecca Evans, Welsh deputy minister for farming and food, said: "Last Summer I made a commitment to improve the standards of animal health and welfare in Wales for both farmed animals and pets when I launched the Animal Health and Welfare Framework. Since then we have been working on a number of measures with partners to raise the standards of dog welfare in Wales.

“Tomorrow [30 April] , new dog breeding regulations come into force aimed at stamping out any irresponsible breeding practices in Wales. Local Authorities and the WLGA will play a crucial role in ensuring that these regulations are implemented by breeders.

“I made a commitment that my officials would hold a training event for local authority enforcement officers and this was held last month.  I am also aware that local authorities held a separate training/best practice event last week.”

The new law will apply to breeders who keep more than three breeding bitches.  Among other requirements, breeders must create socialisation pals for puppies, as well as enhancement and enrichment programmes for all dogs under their care.

Councillor Neil Moore, WLGA spokesperson for regulatory services said: "Local Authorities across Wales have come together to discuss how to implement the new regulations fairly and consistently. We share the Ministers view that welfare standards for animals are extremely important, and Councils' roles are central to achieving this.

“The regulations will provide an opportunity for raising standards in the industry, where on occasion, improvement may be necessary. Licensing officers will be able to discuss the requirements of the regulations with any breeder who wants advice about the changes, and we would encourage them to do that."

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.