The Dog Breeding Establishments Act came into force on the 1st of January 2012. The Act recommends minimum standards for the accommodation of dogs and will place responsibilities on dog breeders.

Under the Act, dog breeders must provide good quality food and drink to their dogs. They must exercise them regularly and ensure they are housed in suitable, clean, ventilated and warm accommodation.

For the first time, there will be a register of dog breeders in the State. Each local authority must establish and maintain a register. Existing breeders will have up to six months to register.

Registration fees for dog breeding establishments have been set out as follows:

• Where no more than 18 bitches are kept: €400
• Between 19 and 30 bitches: €800
• Between 31 and100 bitches: €1,600
• Between 101 and 200 bitches: €3,000
• More than 200 bitches: €3,000, and €1,600 for every 100 bitches thereafter.

Annual breeding establishment charges, of the same amounts, will also apply.

Dogs must be at least six months old before they can breed (it was previously four months). Bitches can have no more than six litters in their lifetime and no more than three in any three-year period.

Dog breeders must microchip dogs when they reach eight weeks of age. They must also microchip dogs before selling them. Local authorities, or those they appoint to maintain the database, must be informed when a dog is sold.

Under the Act, the authorities can inspect suspected puppy farms. Breeders found guilty of a first offence could face fines of up to €5,000 or imprisonment for up to six months. Those convicted on indictment could be liable for fines up to €100,000 or up to five years in prison.

As part of the Act, amendments are being made to the Control of Dogs Act, 1986. The price of dog licence fees will now change.

• An annual dog licence will cost €20. 
• A licence lasting the life of a dog will cost €140.
• A general dog licence will cost €400. 

Hunt clubs and charities are exempt from both registration and annual charges. The Act will not affect individuals who have less than six dogs with breeding capabilities, as they are not classified as breeders. Greyhounds are also exempt from the welfare provisions of the Act. They are legislated for under the Welfare of Greyhounds Act, 2011

The milestones

December 2011 – The Dog Breeding Establishments Act, 2010 is signed into law on 21 December 2012.

November 2011 – The Welfare of Greyhounds Act is signed into law by President Michael D Higgins on 16 November 2011.

November 2011 – Seanad passes final stages of the Dog Breeding Establishments Bill.

July 2010 – The Bill passes all stages in the Dáil by 92 votes to 50.

December 2009 –The Government announces details for the Dog Breeding Establishments Bill. 

March 2008 – The Department of the Environment legal team examines draft legislation for a dog-breeding bill.

August 2005 – A Government working group recommends legislation on dog breeding.