Written question asked by Baroness McIntosh of Pickering (Conservative) on Tuesday, 17 April 2012, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 19 April 2012. It was answered by James Paice (Conservative) on Tuesday, 1 May 2012 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Dogs

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs whether she plans to review the legislation relating to (a) the breeding of dogs, (b) irresponsible behaviour of dog owners and (c) other areas of policy.

Answer: I am pleased to say that on 23 April Government announced a consultation on measures to tackle irresponsible dog owners. These measures include extending the existing dangerous dogs law to cover all private property in England and that all puppies are compulsorily microchipped. The existing laws relating to the breeding of dogs provide the necessary powers to protect the welfare of dogs at dog breeding establishments. However, we will consider any recommendations made by the independent Dog Advisory Council.

Secondary information