Nebraska Dog Breeder Licensing Requirements

Last updated: 2026-02-21

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Quick Summary

Nebraska requires a license for commercial dog breeders under the Commercial Dog and Cat Operator Inspection Act. You need a license if you sell 31 or more dogs per year, own 4 or more breeding dogs, or produce 4 or more litters annually. The Nebraska Department of Agriculture oversees this program.

License Required Yes
Annual Fee $125 initial + annual renewal based on dog count
Threshold 4+ breeding dogs or 31+ dogs sold/year

Regulatory Agency: Nebraska Department of Agriculture

Who Needs a License in Nebraska?

You need a commercial dog breeder license in Nebraska if any of these apply to you: (a) you sell, trade, lease, or give away 31 or more dogs in a 12-month period starting April 1; (b) you own or keep 4 or more dogs meant for breeding during that same period; (c) your dogs have 4 or more litters in that period; or (d) you knowingly sell dogs that will later be sold at retail or through a broker. If you do not meet any of these thresholds, you do not need a state license.

How to Apply

To apply, fill out the application form from the Nebraska Department of Agriculture and send it in with a one-time license fee of $125. This fee is not refundable. Before you can get your license, an inspector from the department will visit your operation to make sure it meets all the rules. Once you are licensed, you must pay an annual renewal fee by April 1 each year.

Fees and Costs

The one-time application fee is $125. After that, you pay an annual renewal fee each year by April 1. The annual fee includes a base amount plus $2 for each dog you keep over 10, based on your daily average number of dogs over the past 12 months. The exact amount depends on the size of your operation.

Inspections and Compliance

A pre-inspection is required before you can get your first license. An inspector from the Nebraska Department of Agriculture will visit your property to check that you meet all the rules. After you are licensed, inspectors can visit at any time to make sure you stay in compliance. They check things like shelter, temperature, food, water, cleanliness, and veterinary care.

Record-Keeping Requirements

You must keep records of all dogs you buy, sell, breed, or transfer. When you sell a dog to its final owner, you must give the buyer written information about the benefits of spaying and neutering. You should also keep health records, vaccination histories, and veterinary care plans on file. A written veterinary care plan must be developed with your attending veterinarian.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Operating as a commercial dog breeder without a license is against the law in Nebraska. The Nebraska Department of Agriculture can investigate complaints, issue fines, and take legal action against unlicensed breeders. If you fail an inspection or do not fix problems that inspectors find, your license can be suspended or revoked. Serious animal welfare violations can also lead to criminal charges.

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