Can you spot an illegal puppy farm?

Which one of these could be a puppy farm?

Yes, it’s all of them! A puppy farm isn’t always obvious. Many people end up buying pups from puppy farms without even knowing it. The dogs who come from these farms can often be bred in poor conditions and often develop serious and sadly, even fatal health conditions leaving their new owners devastated.

How many dogs can a registered dog breeder keep on their premises?

Yes, as crazy as it sounds there is currently no limit to the number of dogs that a registered Dog Breeding Establishment can have on their premises.

On February 1st, 2020 legislation was introduced governing the sale, supply and advertising of pets in Ireland.

Yes, that’s the responsibility of the seller. Since 2016 any dog or pup being sold or having ownership transferred must be microchipped.

A breeding female should legally have no more than 6 litters in her lifetime and no more than 3 litters in any period of 3 years but sadly, this is often not the case on illegal puppy farms.

A pup must be at least 8 weeks old before they are ready to leave their mum. Separating a pup from their mum before this time may result in them missing out on some of their essential early learning. This is a sensitive and influential time for a pup and it really is a case of mum knows best.