Whether you’re considering breeding dogs or looking to bring one into your home, a common question arises: Do dog breeders need to have any qualifications to breed? The straightforward answer is not necessarily, especially for hobbyist breeders.
However, if you’re planning to run a breeding business with employees, there are important qualifications and licences to consider to ensure the well-being of the animals and the success of your venture.
Do You Need a Dog Breeding Licence?
The first step for any breeder is determining whether you need a licence. Licensing requirements vary across the UK depending on your location and the specifics of your operation. To simplify this, we’ve created a handy calculator: Do I Need a Dog Breeding Licence? By answering a few quick questions, you’ll understand whether licensing applies to you and what steps to take next.
If you’re new to breeding or unsure about the legalities, the Journey to Becoming a Licensed Breeder CPD Course is the perfect starting point. This one-day course covers everything you need to know about licensing, compliance, animal welfare legislation, and running a responsible breeding operation. It’s the only course that fully explains the requirements for dog breeding across England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Scotland.
This comprehensive course ensures you’re equipped to operate within the law and provides peace of mind that you’re starting your journey on the right foot.
Do Breeders Need Qualifications?
If you’re breeding without staff (e.g., family members, volunteers, or employees), there’s no legal requirement to hold formal qualifications. However, you’ll need to demonstrate sufficient experience and knowledge about breeding and animal care when applying for a licence.
Animal First Aid training is also a mandatory requirement for breeders, ensuring they can respond to emergencies and maintain high welfare standards for their dogs.
For breeders with staff involved in daily operations, such as family members or volunteers, the legal requirements differ. Staff must either hold relevant qualifications, such as a Level 2 Ofqual-regulated certification in a related activity.
For breeders looking to stand out from the crowd or expand their expertise, pursuing a recognised qualification, such as the Ofqual Level 3 Certificate in Dog Breeding, is a great achievement and reflects your commitment to excellence.
Getting started
The Journey to Becoming a Licensed Breeder CPD Course is highly recommended for all breeders, whether you’re just starting, seeking licensing, or looking to enhance your professional knowledge. This course:
- Explains the animal welfare legislation in detail, tailored for dog breeders across the UK.
- Covers licensing requirements, from policies and procedures to advertising and sales.
- Provides a clear understanding of how to operate a compliant breeding business.
Once licensed, you can join the Licensed Breeder Support Network, which offers a range of invaluable resources and benefits, including:
- Software and tools to streamline compliance.
- Legislation support, both online and over the phone.
- Access to free workshops and advocacy services.
- Exclusive discounts on further training and educational courses.
Advancing Your Breeding Education
For those looking to further their education, we proudly endorse PupStarts, an educational platform offering nationally recognised Ofqual qualifications related to dog breeding. PupStarts provides breeders with the tools to deepen their knowledge in areas such as canine genetics, health screening, breed standards, and welfare regulations.
Members of the Licensed Breeder Support Network enjoy discounts on PupStarts courses, making ongoing education more accessible. These qualifications not only enhance your skills but also set you apart as a professional breeder dedicated to animal welfare.
Why Qualifications Matter
Holding CPD certificates or formal qualifications clearly distinguishes you from other breeders. Responsible buyers actively seek breeders who can demonstrate that their dogs have been reared under high welfare standards.
Certificates like the Ofqual Level 3 Certificate signal that you prioritise the health, temperament, and overall well-being of your dogs. This transparency builds trust, reassures buyers, and elevates your reputation within the breeding community.
A Roadmap to Becoming a Licensed Breeder
- Assess your operation: Use the licence calculator to determine if you need a licence.
- Begin your education: Enrol in the Journey to Becoming a Licensed Breeder CPD Course to gain a solid understanding of regulations and best practices.
- Apply for licensing: Submit your application with evidence of your knowledge, experience, or qualifications.
- Join the support network: Access ongoing guidance, resources, and community support through the Licensed Breeder Support Network.
- Advance your learning: Explore further qualifications, such as those offered by PupStarts, to continue your professional development.
By following this roadmap, you’ll not only meet legal requirements but also position yourself as a responsible and ethical breeder. This approach benefits not only you and your business but also ensures the welfare of the dogs in your care, ensuring trust with potential buyers and contributing to the betterment of the breeding community.
