New dog breeding legislation ‘will make a real difference’

GALWAY East TD Albert Dolan has said that proposed dog breeding reforms aimed at further protecting dogs and puppies are a positive move.

The Government hope that amendments to the Dog Breeding Establishments Act 2010 will help address unethical breeding practices and ensure higher welfare standards for dogs. The proposed changes to the legislation are designed to improve animal welfare through stricter breeding controls, strengthening consumer protection and traceability in the sale of pups, and enhancing transparency through public registers.

“These proposals are a positive and necessary step, reflecting a clear government commitment to prioritising animal welfare in dog breeding,” said Galway East TD Albert Dolan.

“Long standing gaps in regulation, enforcement and transparency are being addressed, sending a strong message that unacceptable practices will not be allowed to continue.”

Limits on number of litters

The proposed measures were announced by the Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon. The Government has approved priority drafting of the Bill and the proposed reforms will be laid out in a draft general scheme that will be sent to the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Agriculture, Food and the Marine for pre-legislative scrutiny.

Deputy Dolan welcomed the focus on protections for breeding dogs, including limits on the number of litters, minimum and maximum breeding ages, and bans on inbreeding and repeated caesarean sections.

He also noted the proposed ban on third-party sales and stricter rules around the sale of pups are important steps in improving traceability and consumer confidence.

“The introduction of clear limits on breeding, along with proper staffing requirements, is essential to protecting animal welfare and preventing overbreeding,” added Deputy Dolan.

“These measures, combined with stronger inspection and enforcement powers, will make a real difference on the ground.

“I would echo the Minister’s message to the public that a dog is a lifetime commitment. Where possible, people should consider adopting from shelters or ensure they are buying only from registered and compliant establishments.”