Is it illegal to sell puppies?
Robert Young
Updated on April 13, 2026
Also know, can you get in trouble for selling puppies?
In many states, only the movement of underage dogs or cats in commerce results in a violation of laws. Less than half of states make a violation of the law a criminal misdemeanor. California's law makes it a misdemeanor to sell a puppy under the age of eight weeks as does Nebraska's.
Additionally, is selling dogs without papers illegal? The sale of purebred dogs is governed by the federal Animal Pedigree Act (APA). Selling a puppy without papers automatically makes it non-purebred. Any offspring from a non-registered dog are not considered purebred. If the parents are purebred, there is no excuse for selling unregistered puppies.
In this way, is it illegal to sell puppies in the UK?
Dog breeding and selling In both England and Wales, it is illegal to sell a puppy under the age of eight weeks. Buying a puppy is a minefield due to inadequate and out of date laws that don't sufficiently protect animal welfare or consumers. If you want to buy a puppy, please read our advice first.
How can I legally sell my dog?
How to sell or rehome a cat or dog in NSW
- Make sure your cat or dog is microchipped.
- Advertise it for sale using an identification number.
- Make sure ownership is transferred.