New animal welfare rules in the EU: decision adopted, implementation ahead!

The EU Tightens Rules on Breeding and Keeping Pets: What’s New?

On June 19, 2025, the European Parliament approved a set of key provisions in a new regulation aimed at improving the breeding, care, and traceability of domestic animals.

Vote result: 457 in favor, 17 against, 86 abstentions.

These measures will affect not only breeders but also all pet owners across the European Union.

Let’s break down what’s changing — and how it could impact the future of pet ownership in Europe.

Mandatory Microchipping and Registration of All Dogs and Cats

According to the new regulation:

All dogs and cats — including privately owned pets — must be microchipped and officially registered.
The data will be stored in national databases that are compatible with a unified EU-wide system.
This will ensure transparent traceability of each animal’s origin and life history — from birth to change of ownership.

Why this matters: It’s a major step to fight illegal trade, increase owner accountability, and simplify procedures when traveling or relocating with pets across borders.

Ban on Breeding Practices Harmful to Animal Health

The regulation bans breeding of animals with known genetic predispositions to severe health issues, such as extreme brachycephaly, dysplasia, or other hereditary conditions.
Inbreeding (e.g., parent-offspring, sibling matings) is strictly prohibited.
Limits will also be introduced on the number of litters per female animal and on minimum recovery time between pregnancies.

Goal: To stop irresponsible breeding practices that harm animal welfare and reduce the occurrence of congenital defects or suffering in newborn animals.

Ban on Selling Dogs and Cats in Pet Stores

The sale of cats and dogs in pet shops will be fully banned across the EU.
Sales will only be allowed through licensed breeders, certified shelters, or approved online platforms.

Why this matters: This reduces impulse buying, helps eliminate illegal sources, and protects animals from being treated as commodities.

Introduction of Digital Pet Passports

Each pet will receive a digital passport containing:

Microchip number
Vaccination history
Medical records
Breeder and ownership history

This digital record will be linked with national and EU databases and used for cross-border travel, healthcare, and transfers.

New Requirements for Pet Imports

All dogs and cats imported into the EU must:

Be microchipped and registered at least five days before entering EU territory
Have documented proof of origin and breeding conditions

Purpose: To reduce illegal imports and improve transparency around animal welfare standards in third countries.

Mandatory Training for Breeders and Animal Workers

Anyone involved in breeding, selling, or caring for animals will be required to complete certified training.

This includes:

Breeders
Animal shelter staff
Pet store employees
Transporters and logistics staff

Stronger Oversight and Monitoring

New digital monitoring tools and harmonized criteria for assessing animal welfare will be introduced.
EU Member States will be required to submit annual reports on the implementation of the regulation and allow inspections.

What’s Next?

This regulation reflects the European Parliament’s official position, and must now go through negotiations with the Council of the EU. Once the final text is agreed and published, it will enter into force with a transition period of up to five years for Member States to implement the changes.

Why It Matters

This legislation marks a major step toward a more responsible, transparent, and humane approach to pet care and breeding in Europe. It aims to eliminate unethical breeding practices, increase transparency at every stage — from birth to transport — and protect pets across the EU.

If you want to stay informed about how this law evolves — follow us on Telegram, Facebook, and Instagram. We’ll be sharing updates, official document summaries, and helpful guides for pet owners across Europe.

2025-06-20 10:55 Laws, rules