Dog Breeder Licensing Requirements in Georgia
Georgia requires licensing under the Animal Protection Act for pet dealers and kennel operators. A person selling only animals they produced is exempt if selling fewer than 30 per year (unless locally licensed or holding a sales tax number). Licensed facilities must meet detailed standards and are subject to unannounced inspections.
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License Types & Requirements in Georgia
Pet Dealer / Kennel License
Must meet standards for housing, sanitation, vet care, socialization, recordkeeping. Evacuation plans required. Minimum sale age: 8 weeks for puppies.
Local Requirements: Local governments may have additional requirements.
Federal USDA Licensing in Georgia
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
Frequency: Unannounced; as frequently as deemed necessary
Commissioner or agents may enter any property at any time for inspection of licensed facilities.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Operating without license: misdemeanor.
- Corporate violations: fines up to $1,000 and/or 200–500 hours community service.
- Commissioner may deny, suspend, revoke licenses and seek injunctions.
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
- Animal classification/separation records.
- Vet care and health records.
- Sales/acquisition records.
- Evacuation/disaster plans.
Buyer Protections in Georgia
Georgia Pet Purchaser Provisions
The Animal Protection Act provides some protections through licensing and inspection framework.
For more information, visit our Puppy Buyer's Guide.
Resources & Official Links
Governing Authority
Georgia Department of Agriculture – Animal Protection DivisionRelevant Laws
Georgia Animal Protection Act (Ga. Code Ann. § 4-11-1 to 18) Georgia Animal Protection Regulations (Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. 40-13-13-.01 to .09)Useful Tools
GA Dept of Agriculture – Animal Protection USDA APHISFrequently Asked Questions About Dog Breeding in Georgia
Do I need a license to breed dogs in Georgia?
If you sell 30+ animals/year or hold a local business license or sales tax number, yes.
Can Georgia inspectors visit without notice?
Yes. Unannounced inspections at any time.
Neighboring States
Breeding or selling dogs across state lines? Check requirements in neighboring states.