Written question asked by Helen Grant (Conservative) on Thursday, 1 March 2012, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 5 March 2012. It was answered by James Paice (Conservative) on Tuesday, 6 March 2012 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Dogs: Breeding

Question: (2) if she will bring forward legislative proposals on (a) dog breeding and (b) puppy farmers outside monitored and regulated schemes.

Answer: DEFRA holds regular discussions with the devolved Administrations on dog breeding and we have no plans to review existing laws on dog breeding.There are already laws in place to specifically protect the welfare of dogs in dog breeding establishments, which are enforced by local authorities. In addition to the specific law on dog breeding, there is also the Animal Welfare Act, which places on those who own or are responsible for animals a duty to ensure their animals' welfare. This includes owners and keepers of dog breeding establishments. Failure to provide for the welfare of an animal could lead to a fine of up to £5,000 and/or six months imprisonment.If anyone has any concerns about the welfare of a dog in a dog breeding establishment, they should report it to the appropriate local authority which has powers to investigate.In response to concerns over the health and welfare of pedigree dogs, an independent Dog Advisory Council was set up in 2010, under the chairmanship of Professor Sheila Crispin. The Council works with professional veterinarian associations and key dog welfare groups to produce proposals for tackling problems associated with genetic defects in pedigree dogs. The Government will of course consider the proposals that the Dog Advisory Council make.

Secondary information