West Virginia Dog Breeder Licensing Requirements

Last updated: 2026-02-21

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Quick Summary

West Virginia requires commercial dog breeders who keep 11 or more unsterilized dogs over age one for breeding to get a permit from their county commission. There are two classes of commercial breeders based on the number of dogs, with different rules for each class.

License Required Yes (11+ breeding dogs)
Annual Fee Up to $250 (Class I)
Threshold 11 or more unsterilized dogs over age 1
Class I 11-30 dogs
Class II More than 30 dogs

Regulatory Agency: County Commissions; West Virginia Department of Agriculture

Who Needs a License in West Virginia?

Under West Virginia Code Section 19-20-26, a commercial dog breeder is anyone who keeps 11 or more unsterilized dogs over the age of one year for the purpose of breeding, or who is in the business of breeding dogs as household pets for sale or trade. There are two classes: Class I breeders have 11 to 30 unsterilized dogs, and Class II breeders have more than 30. Both classes must get a permit and a business registration certificate. You also need a valid business license from the locality where your operation is located, if the locality requires one.

How to Apply

You must apply for a commercial dog breeder permit from the county commission in the county where your breeding operation is located. You will need to get a business registration certificate and, if required by your locality, a valid business license. The permit must be renewed every year. Contact your county commission office for the application form and specific local requirements.

Fees and Costs

Class I commercial dog breeders (11 to 30 dogs) pay an annual permit fee set by the county commission, which cannot be more than $250 per year. Fees for Class II breeders (more than 30 dogs) are also set by the county commission. A bill introduced in 2025 (HB 3132) proposed raising the Class I maximum fee to $350, but check with your county commission for the current fee in your area.

Inspections and Compliance

Commercial dog breeding operations are subject to inspections to make sure they are following the law. Inspectors check that dogs are being treated humanely, that facilities are clean and safe, and that all required records are being kept. Both Class I and Class II breeders must be ready for inspections at any time.

Record-Keeping Requirements

Commercial breeders must keep current, valid rabies certificates for every dog. You must maintain records showing where each dog came from and where it went when sold. Your annual permit number must be included on any advertisement for the sale of a dog. Records should be available for review during inspections.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Operating as a commercial dog breeder without the required permit and business registration is a violation of West Virginia law. Breeders must dispose of dogs only by gift, sale, transfer, barter, or euthanasia by a licensed veterinarian. Female dogs can only be bred after getting an annual veterinary health certification. Violations can result in fines, loss of your permit, and other enforcement actions.

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