Import of Dogs Bill

A Bill to prohibit the import of puppies under six months; to prohibit the import of pregnant dogs in specified circumstances; to prohibit the import of dogs with cropped ears or docked tails; and for connected purposes.

Originating House

House of Commons

Last Updated

2 November 2023

In Plain English

AI-generated

This Bill would stop certain dogs being imported into the UK. It bans importing puppies under six months old, pregnant dogs in specified circumstances, and dogs with cropped ears or docked tails, with additional enforcement and welfare measures to support the ban.

Key Points

Prohibits the import of puppies under six months old into the UK.
Prohibits the import of pregnant dogs in specified circumstances.
Prohibits the import of dogs with cropped ears or docked tails.
Includes enforcement provisions and related welfare measures to support the ban.
Regulations will set out any exemptions and operational details.

Progress

The bill is at its first reading in the House of Commons. It will move on to committee stage for detailed scrutiny, followed by further readings if it progresses.

Who is affected?

Prospective puppy buyers in the UKDog importers and sellersDog breeders who import dogsPet shops selling dogsAnimal welfare organisations and charitiesVeterinary professionals and enforcement agencies involved in dog import controls

Generated 21 February 2026

Updates & Documents

News (1)

Import of Dogs Bill

19 Sept 2023

The 2022-2023 session of Parliament has prorogued and this Bill will make no further progress.

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.

Import of Dogs Bill | TrackPolitics