The practice of raising litters of kittens or puppies at home without official registration has officially come to an end. The new Animal Welfare Law has now entered into force, introducing significant changes for pet owners throughout Spain and the province of Alicante. One of the most impactful aspects of this legislation is the strict prohibition of breeding animals in a domestic setting unless the owner is formally registered as an authorised breeder.
From today, any individual wishing for their dog or cat to have offspring must satisfy a series of legal requirements. These include being listed on the official register of breeders, meeting specific animal welfare standards, and, in certain instances, obtaining additional licences as required by regional regulations.
The primary objective of this measure is to tackle indiscriminate breeding and the high rate of animal abandonment. According to data from shelters and associations, many unplanned litters eventually lead to abandonment or overcrowding in animal rescue centres. By implementing these rules, the law aims to promote responsible ownership and ensure that breeding only occurs under appropriate conditions.
This represents a major shift for those who previously allowed their pets to have occasional litters at home. Even in these “one-off” cases, the new regulations mandate prior registration. Failure to comply with these obligations can result in financial penalties, with the fine’s severity depending on the infringement’s nature. Some fines can reach a significant amount of euro for those who ignore the registration process.
In addition to breeding restrictions, the law strengthens other protections. These include tighter controls on reproduction—recommending sterilisation in specific cases—and better tracking of a pet’s origin. Local authorities and the Guardia Civil remain vigilant to ensure the new standards are upheld. Experts suggest that while the law has sparked debate between hobbyist breeders and owners, it is a necessary step forward for animal protection in regions like Alicante.
