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Dog Breeder Licensing Requirements in California

License Required Last updated: December 1, 2025
California regulates breeders under the Polanco-Lockyer Pet Breeder Warranty Act. Breeders selling 3+ litters or 20+ dogs in 12 months must meet standards of care and provide health guarantees. Wire-only flooring prohibited. Pet stores banned from selling non-rescue animals.

On This Page

  1. License Types & Requirements
  2. Federal USDA Requirements
  3. Inspections
  4. Penalties for Non-Compliance
  5. Recordkeeping Requirements
  6. Buyer Protections
  7. Resources & Links
  8. Frequently Asked Questions

License Types & Requirements in California

Dog Breeder Registration (Warranty Act)

Issuing Authority
California CDFA
Threshold
3+ litters or 20+ dogs sold in 12 months
Fee
Compliance-based (no state fee)
Renewal
Ongoing

Standards: sanitary conditions, adequate nutrition/water/space, socialization, exercise, vet care. Wire-only flooring prohibited. Health guarantees to buyers required.

Local Requirements: Many cities have kennel permits and retail pet sale bans (AB 485).

Federal USDA Licensing in California

Federal USDA requirements apply.

The USDA license is separate from and in addition to any state or county license. For complete details, visit our USDA Licensing Guide.

Inspections

California does not currently require routine state-level inspections of breeding operations, though inspections may occur in response to complaints.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

  • Civil penalty up to $1,000 per violation.
  • Additional local and consumer protection penalties.
Important: In addition to state penalties, breeders who meet the USDA threshold may face separate federal fines of up to $10,000 per violation per day.

Recordkeeping Requirements

  • Dogs bred and sold.
  • Health/vaccination records.
  • Sales records with buyer info and health disclosures.

Buyer Protections in California

California Pet Breeder Warranty Act

Breeders must disclose health info and provide vet records. Congenital/hereditary conditions: refund, replacement, or vet reimbursement.

For more information, visit our Puppy Buyer's Guide.

Resources & Official Links

Governing Authority

California CDFA

Relevant Laws

Polanco-Lockyer Pet Breeder Warranty Act (Cal. Health & Safety Code § 122045–122315)

Useful Tools

California CDFA CA Legislative Info USDA APHIS

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Breeding in California

Do I need a license in California?
No traditional license, but the Warranty Act applies if you sell 3+ litters or 20+ dogs/year.
Puppy lemon law?
Yes. Refund, replacement, or vet reimbursement for congenital/hereditary conditions.
Can pet stores sell puppies?
No. AB 485 requires pet stores to source from rescues/shelters.

Neighboring States

Breeding or selling dogs across state lines? Check requirements in neighboring states.

Arizona → Nevada → Oregon →
← View All States