Texas Dog Breeder Licensing Requirements

Last updated: 2026-02-21

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Quick Summary

Texas requires anyone who owns five or more intact adult female dogs or cats and breeds them for sale to get a license from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Fees range from $150 to $500 per year depending on the number of breeding animals you keep.

License Required Yes
Annual Fee $150 - $500 (based on number of animals)
Threshold 5 or more intact adult female dogs/cats

Regulatory Agency: Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR)

Who Needs a License in Texas?

Under the Texas Dog or Cat Breeders Act (Chapter 802 of the Texas Occupations Code), you need a license if you own five or more intact adult female dogs or cats and breed them for direct or indirect sale. Some people are exempt, including those who breed dogs for herding livestock, hunting, or competing in field trials or other performance events. Small hobby breeders with fewer than five intact adult females are also exempt from state licensing.

How to Apply

To apply, submit a completed license application form and the required fee to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Before your license is issued, TDLR must inspect your facility to make sure it meets all the requirements. You can find the application form on the TDLR website at tdlr.texas.gov or call them at (800) 803-9202. You can also mail your application to TDLR Licensed Breeder Program, P.O. Box 12157, Austin, Texas 78711.

Fees and Costs

License fees are based on the number of adult intact female animals you keep. The fee is $150 per year for 5 to 10 animals, $300 per year for 11 to 25 animals, and $500 per year for 26 or more animals. These fees apply to both new licenses and renewals. If you need an out-of-cycle inspection because of serious or repeated violations, there is an extra $150 inspection fee.

Inspections and Compliance

TDLR must inspect your facility before issuing a license. After that, inspections may happen at any time to make sure you are following the rules. Inspectors check things like sanitation, shelter conditions, food and water, and medical care for the animals. If there are serious or repeated violations, you may be required to have additional inspections at your own cost.

Record-Keeping Requirements

Licensed breeders must keep records of all animals they breed and sell. This includes health certificates, vaccination records, and veterinary inspection certificates. Dogs must be examined by a veterinarian before they are sold. You must also keep records that show where each animal came from and where it went when sold. These records must be available for TDLR inspectors to review.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Breeding or selling dogs without the required TDLR license is a violation of state law. TDLR can impose fines, suspend or revoke your license, or take other enforcement action. The penalties depend on the seriousness and number of violations. Repeated violations related to sanitation, shelter, food, water, or medical treatment are treated especially seriously.

Sources and References

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