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Dog Breeder Licensing Requirements in North Dakota

No State License Required Last updated: December 1, 2025
North Dakota does not have a state-level commercial dog breeder licensing law.

On This Page

  1. Federal USDA Requirements
  2. Inspections
  3. Penalties for Non-Compliance
  4. Recordkeeping Requirements
  5. Resources & Links
  6. Frequently Asked Questions

Federal USDA Licensing in North Dakota

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

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

Penalties for Non-Compliance

  • No state breeder licensing 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

  • No state-level requirements.

Resources & Official Links

Governing Authority

North Dakota Department of Agriculture

Relevant Laws

ND Cruelty to Animals (NDCC § 36-21.2)

Useful Tools

ND Dept of Agriculture USDA APHIS

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Breeding in North Dakota

Do I need a license?
No state license required.
Puppy lemon law?
No.

Neighboring States

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

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