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Dog Breeder Licensing Requirements in West Virginia

License Required Last updated: December 1, 2025
West Virginia requires licensing for commercial breeders. The Department of Agriculture oversees licensing and inspections.

On This Page

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

License Types & Requirements in West Virginia

Commercial Breeder License

Issuing Authority
WV Dept of Agriculture
Threshold
As defined by statute
Fee
Varies
Renewal
Annual

Required for commercial breeders.

Local Requirements: Local regulations may apply.

Federal USDA Licensing in West Virginia

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: As determined by Department

Licensed facilities subject to inspection.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

  • Fines and license revocation.
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 required.

Resources & Official Links

Governing Authority

West Virginia Department of Agriculture

Relevant Laws

WV Commercial Dog Breeder Act (W. Va. Code § 19-20-1 et seq.)

Useful Tools

WV Dept of Agriculture USDA APHIS

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Breeding in West Virginia

Do I need a license?
Yes for commercial breeders.
Puppy lemon law?
West Virginia does not have a comprehensive puppy lemon law.

Neighboring States

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

Kentucky → Maryland → Ohio → Pennsylvania → Virginia →
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