21/11/2025
⚠️ Important Update for NSW Dog Breeders & New Puppy Owners
From 1 December 2025, new NSW legislation will introduce much stricter regulations around dog breeding. Under these laws, puppy breeders and owners could face fines exceeding $110,000 for failing to comply with the updated standards.
One of the biggest changes is a lifetime cap of five litters per dog, aimed at reducing backyard breeding and preventing large-scale puppy farming. These laws are designed to improve animal welfare and ensure breeding dogs receive proper care throughout their lives.
If you breed dogs—whether professionally or “just one litter”—here are some important points to be aware of:
🐾 Breeding dogs must receive appropriate veterinary care, including health checks before breeding and prompt treatment for any medical issues.
🐾 Suitable housing, nutrition and socialisation are required by law. Dogs must be kept in clean, safe environments with access to enrichment.
🐾 Records must be kept for every dog and litter, including mating dates, whelping details, microchip numbers, veterinary treatments and where puppies are rehomed.
🐾 Advertising rules apply—all ads must include the correct breeder identification number.
🐾 Selling sick or under-age puppies is illegal. Puppies must be microchipped and at least 8 weeks old before going to their new homes.
🐾 Anyone breeding for sale, even occasionally, may be considered a “breeder” under NSW law, not just large-scale operations.
These changes are intended to protect breeding dogs, improve puppy welfare, and reduce the number of animals entering rescue.
