New dog breeding rules to crack down on 'backstreet breeders'

Tough new dog breeding rules are being brought in across the country to ensure the safety of Britain's pets.

The legislation announced today will tighten the rules around breeding and selling dogs and will make it illegal for anyone to sell puppies under eight-weeks-old.

Anyone breeding and selling three or more litters of puppies a year will be required to get a licence to do so.

"Everyone who owns a pet or is looking to introduce one into their life will want to know that the animal has had the very best start to life," said Environment Secretary Andrea Leadsom.

"Yet for thousands of puppies born each year to smaller 'backstreet breeders', their first weeks are spent in cramped and squalid conditions without the care and attention they need.

"That is why we are cracking down on the worst offenders by strengthening the dog breeding licence and giving councils the power they need to take action.

"With more and more pet sales now taking place on the internet, it's right that this market is subject to the same strict licensing criteria as other breeders and pet shops so that consumers are not misled."

Irresponsible breeders who don't stick to the new rules will face an unlimited fine and/or six months in prison.

The new rules have been welcomed by animal welfare charities and dog breeders.

"This is hugely important legislation and like every responsible dog breeder in Britain I am thrilled to see it arrive," Labrador breeder Sussie Wiles from west London told Sky News.

"Little puppies need to be with their mothers for those first few crucial months, that's what they need and this legislation enshrines that in law. I'm thrilled."

The Dogs Trust hailed the announcement as "a significant step forward".

"Today is a very important day for the welfare of puppies," spokeswoman Claire Calder told Sky News.

"It's a crackdown on the loopholes that a number of people had exploited over the years."

Under the new plans pet shops will also be required to give buyers written information about the animals they buy.

This information will include details of the five welfare needs owners must meet under the Animal Welfare Act: environment, diet, behaviour, housing and freedom from pain.