Home› States› Delaware

Dog Breeder Licensing Requirements in Delaware

License Required Last updated: December 1, 2025
Delaware requires a kennel license for any premises where more than four dogs are kept. Licensed kennels must meet comprehensive humane care and handling standards. Wire-only flooring is prohibited. Animal welfare officers may inspect facilities.

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 Delaware

Kennel License

Issuing Authority
Delaware Department of Agriculture
Threshold
More than 4 dogs
Fee
Set by regulation
Renewal
Annual

Required for premises with more than four dogs. Must meet standards for indoor/outdoor housing, primary enclosures, tethering, and husbandry. Wire-only flooring prohibited.

Local Requirements: Local municipalities may have additional pet limit ordinances.

Federal USDA Licensing in Delaware

Federal USDA requirements apply for qualifying breeders.

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

Inspections

Frequency: During normal business hours or by appointment

Animal welfare officers may inspect kennel facilities. No person may refuse admittance for inspection.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

  • First violation: $100 civil penalty.
  • Second: $250.
  • Subsequent: $500 each.
  • Department may suspend license until deficiencies corrected.
  • 10-day minimum warning period before fines imposed.
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

  • Records of all dogs kept.
  • Veterinary and vaccination records.
  • Sales and transfer records.

Buyer Protections in Delaware

Delaware Pet Purchaser Protection

Sellers must provide purchasers with a copy of their rights at time of sale. Buyers have remedies for sick or defective animals.

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

Resources & Official Links

Governing Authority

Delaware Department of Agriculture

Relevant Laws

Delaware Kennel Requirements (16 Del.C. § 3042F–3044F)

Useful Tools

Delaware Department of Agriculture USDA APHIS

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Breeding in Delaware

How many dogs can I have in Delaware without a kennel license?
Up to four dogs. More than four requires a kennel license.
Can I house dogs on wire flooring in Delaware?
No. Wire-only flooring is prohibited.
Does Delaware have a puppy lemon law?
Yes. Sellers must disclose buyer rights and provide remedies for sick animals.

Neighboring States

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

Maryland → New Jersey → Pennsylvania →
← View All States