Pennsylvania Dog Breeder Licensing Requirements

Last updated: 2026-02-21

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Quick Summary

Pennsylvania has one of the most detailed dog breeder licensing systems in the country. You need a kennel license from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture if 26 or more dogs pass through your facility in a calendar year. Kennels are classified as either non-commercial or commercial, with different rules and fee levels based on the number of dogs.

License Required Yes
Annual Fee $100-$625+ (based on kennel class)
Threshold 26+ dogs in a calendar year
Commercial Threshold 60+ dogs sold per year or wholesale sales
License Period January 1 through December 31

Regulatory Agency: Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement

Who Needs a License in Pennsylvania?

You need a kennel license if more than 25 dogs of any age (including puppies) have been on your property in a single calendar year. A non-commercial kennel is a breeder who only sells directly to buyers and transfers no more than 60 dogs per year. A commercial kennel is one that breeds dogs and either sells more than 60 dogs per year, sells any dogs at wholesale, or both. Every dog in Pennsylvania over 12 weeks old also needs an individual dog license or must be covered under a kennel license.

How to Apply

Apply to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement. You must apply on or before January 1 of each year. Applications are available on the PA Department of Agriculture website. You will need to provide information about your facility, the number of dogs, and your veterinary care plan. New kennels must pass an inspection before the license is issued. All kennel licenses expire on December 31.

Fees and Costs

Kennel license fees depend on the class and type of kennel. Approximate fees are: Class I (up to 50 dogs) is about $100; Class II (51-100 dogs) is about $250; higher classes for larger operations go up to $625 or more. Individual dog license fees are $10.80 per year, or $52.80 for a lifetime license if the dog has a microchip or tattoo. You also need a sales tax license if you sell any dogs or puppies at retail in Pennsylvania.

Inspections and Compliance

The Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement conducts inspections of licensed kennels. New facilities must pass an inspection before getting a license. After that, regular inspections make sure you follow all the rules for housing, sanitation, veterinary care, and animal welfare. Inspectors check for adequate space, clean water, proper food, and safe living conditions for all dogs.

Record-Keeping Requirements

Kennel operators must keep records of every dog that enters and leaves the facility. This includes purchase and sale records, health information, and vaccination history. Puppies cannot be sold until they are at least 8 weeks old. All records must be available for inspection by the Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement at any time.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Operating a kennel without a license is a violation of the Pennsylvania Dog Law. Penalties can include fines, license suspension, or license revocation. Late registration results in additional penalty fees. Serious or repeated violations can lead to criminal charges. The Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement has the power to seize animals from facilities that do not meet minimum care standards.

Sources and References

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