New York Dog Breeder Licensing Requirements

Last updated: 2026-02-21

Report an Error

Quick Summary

New York requires breeders who sell more than 25 dogs or cats per year to be licensed as pet dealers under Article 26-A of the Agriculture and Markets Law. Breeders selling 9 to 25 animals per year pay a lower fee but are still regulated. As of December 2024, the Puppy Mill Pipeline Act bans pet stores from selling dogs, cats, and rabbits.

License Required Yes, for 25+ animals/year (mandatory)
Annual Fee $100 (25+ animals); $25 (9-25 animals)
Threshold 25+ dogs/cats sold per year

Regulatory Agency: New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets

Who Needs a License in New York?

In New York, you must be licensed as a pet dealer if you sell or offer to sell more than 25 dogs and/or cats per year that were born and raised on your property. If you sell between 9 and 25 animals per year, you can still get a license but at a lower fee. Breeders who sell fewer than 9 animals per year from their own residential property are generally exempt. As of December 15, 2024, under the Puppy Mill Pipeline Act, pet stores and brokers can no longer be licensed as pet dealers and are banned from selling dogs, cats, and rabbits.

How to Apply

You apply through the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets. Their website has information on how to become a pet dealer, including the application form and guidelines. You must provide details about your breeding operation, your facility, and your veterinary care plan. Your facility must meet all the care standards before you can get a license. You can find the application and guidelines on the Agriculture and Markets website.

Fees and Costs

If you sell more than 25 animals per year, the application fee is $100, and the renewal fee is also $100 per year. If you sell between 9 and 25 animals per year, the fee is $25 for both the application and annual renewal. These fees are non-refundable. All licenses must be renewed each year.

Inspections and Compliance

Licensed pet dealers are subject to inspections by the Department of Agriculture and Markets. Inspectors check that your facility meets the standards set by Article 26-A, including proper housing, sanitation, food and water, temperature control, and veterinary care. You must designate an attending veterinarian who provides a written program of veterinary care and makes regular visits to your facility.

Record-Keeping Requirements

Every licensed pet dealer must keep records of all animals purchased, acquired, held, transported, sold, or given away. Records must include the animal's breed, age, sex, color, and any identifying marks or numbers. You must also keep health records, vaccination histories, and the name and address of every person you buy from or sell to. No pet dealer may sell a dog or cat younger than 8 weeks old.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Operating as an unlicensed pet dealer is a violation of New York law. The Department of Agriculture and Markets can issue fines, suspend or revoke your license, and take legal action. If you break the animal care standards, you may face additional penalties. The new Puppy Mill Pipeline Act also makes it illegal for pet stores to sell dogs, cats, or rabbits, with enforcement actions for violations.

Sources and References

Related Resources