Governor Abbot has signed SB 876 further regulating Texas dog breeders.
While the new law goes into effect on September 1, 2023, someone that owns between 5 and 11 intact females will have until January 1, 2024, to come into compliance. The law will require anyone that both owns 5 or more intact females and is engaged in the business of breeding those dogs for sale to secure a state license.
AKC believes based on discussions with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation and with Governor Abbott’s staff that the law only applies to someone that is actively breeding 5 intact females. Based on this information, if you are not actively breeding 5 intact females than the law may not apply to you. AKC plans to engage with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation over the coming months to clarify the law and develop fair and reasonable regulations for those who own and breed between 5 and 11 intact females. Please continue to look out for additional updates throughout the rulemaking process.
The new law also exempts those that breed primarily for conformation purposes. If you breed dogs with the primary intent of producing conformation dogs than you are exempt from this law. Those that breed primarily for hunting, herding livestock or other agriculture purposes, and for participation in other AKC events were already exempt from the law.
AKC appreciates the efforts of responsible dog owners from across Texas that took the time to contact lawmakers. Thanks to these efforts, lawmakers amended SB 876 to better protect some hobby breeders.
Once the law goes into effect, please let AKC know how the law is being enforced. AKC relies heavily on responsible dog owners to inform us about the impact of legislation in their communities.
AKC Government Relations continues to monitor all bills impacting dog owners in Texas. For questions or more information, contact AKC GR at doglaw@akc.org.