Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker has signed a bill establishing a three-year moratorium on the breeding of dogs and the sale and transfer of puppies under seven months of age in the city. The bill takes effect on June 2, 2026.
In short, Bill 250989 establishes a 36-month moratorium on the breeding and transfer of puppies in the City. The bill restricts the transfer, offer for transfer, and advertising of puppies under seven months of age. The bill does not apply to nonprofit animal shelters or animal rescue organizations with 501(c)(3) status, any person or entity holding a valid Pennsylvania Dog Law kennel license, or the transfers of puppies bred for bona fide service, law enforcement, search and rescue, or research programs.
The American Kennel Club is working with the Pennsylvania Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement to clarify how the Commonwealth’s kennel license regulations designed for higher volume breeders would be administered for home-based hobbyists in Philadelphia who may choose to obtain a state-issued kennel license in order to continue to breed during the 36-month moratorium.
For more information, contact AKC’s Government Relations Department at email doglaw@akc.org.
AKC GR along with the Pennsylvania Federation of Dog Clubs, will continue to monitor this and other legislation that impact the rights of dog owners and the dogs they love.