September 2021

A Message from the NSW Chief Animal Welfare Officer

Animal Welfare Code of Practice - Breeding dogs and cats

The NSW Government has updated the Animal Welfare Code of Practice – Breeding dogs and cats. The updates are common-sense changes which are designed to ensure that everyone who is covered by the Code can understand and follow the Code requirements and guidance.

The key updates relate to requirements around enclosure fence heights, vaccination requirements and mating ages. We have also updated terminology within the Code to made it easier to understand. A full summary of the changes can be found on the DPI website along with the revised Breeding Code.

To ensure the updates are fit for purpose, we have worked with key stakeholder groups, including Animal Care Australia, Master Dog Breeders Association, Australian Federation of Livestock Working Dogs, Dogs NSW, NSW Farmers, Australian National Cats Inc., Cats NSW, and the NSW Cat Fanciers Association. The animal welfare enforcement agencies – the RSPCA NSW, the Animal Welfare League NSW and the NSW Police - were also consulted and the updated Code has been endorsed by the NSW Animal Welfare Advisory Council.

The NSW Government is continuing to reform NSW animal laws in consultation with stakeholders and the community. To have your say and help set the direction for animal welfare policy in this state, visit our website and make a submission by 17 September 2021.

Thank you for your continued interest in the welfare of breeding dogs and cats in NSW.