These Regulations make provision for the licensing of dog breeding establishments. Part I of the Regulations designates the breeding of dogs for the purposes of section 12(1) of the Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 (c.16) (“the Act”). The consequence of this designation is that, subject to qualifying criteria and some exceptions, any person wishing to breed dogs shall obtain a licence from the district council in which the establishment is located.

Part II of the Regulations makes provision for the granting of the licence by district councils and the charging of fees to cover any reasonable expenses incurred in performing this function and for monitoring compliance with these Regulations.

Part III provides for the suspension and revocation of the licence if the conditions in Schedule 4 to these Regulations are breached and for appeals.

Part IV provides powers of entry and applies relevant post conviction powers contained in the Act. It provides that a breach of the Regulations is a criminal offence and provides for councils to enforce these Regulations.

Schedule 1 to these Regulations sets out the form of the application for a Dog breeding Establishment Licence.

Schedule 2 to these Regulations sets out the form of the Dog Breeding Establishment Licence.

Schedule 3 to these Regulations sets out the particulars to be contained in a register of Dog Breeding Establishment Licences to be kept by Councils.

Schedule 4 to these Regulations sets out conditions that shall be met in order for a district council to grant a licence.