Mississippi Dog Breeder Licensing Requirements

In Mississippi, you need a license if you run a commercial kennel. A commercial kennel is any person, business, or company that sells or gives away 10 or more litters or 50 or more puppies in any 12-month period. The Mississippi Dog and Cat Pet Protection Law of 2011 (MS Code 97-41-16) also sets care standards for persons with custody of more than 10 female dogs for breeding purposes and caps covered dogs at 50. Note that Mississippi does not have a comprehensive dedicated commercial breeder licensing program like many other states, and enforcement of existing requirements has been described as limited. If you breed fewer dogs than the commercial kennel threshold, you do not need a state license, but you still have to follow general animal welfare laws and any local rules in your city or county.

To get a license, you must fill out a written application and send it to the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce each year. The department will inspect your property to make sure it meets all the rules before they give you a license. You must renew your license every year.

The annual license fee is up to $200. You must pay this fee each year when you renew your license. The exact amount depends on the size and type of your operation.

The Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce inspects licensed kennels to make sure they follow the rules. Inspectors check for clean housing, secure enclosures, proper temperature control, safe food and water, and correct waste disposal. Your facility can be inspected at any time, and you must pass an inspection before you get your first license.

Licensed commercial kennels must keep basic records about the animals they sell or transfer. This includes information about each animal's health, vaccinations, and where it came from or where it went. Good record-keeping helps the state make sure animals are healthy and well cared for.

If you run a commercial kennel without a license, you can face penalties under Mississippi law. The state can fine you, and your operation may be shut down. If animals are found in poor conditions, you could also face animal cruelty charges under Mississippi's animal welfare laws.