Puppy Import (Prohibition) Bill

A Bill to prohibit the import of young puppies; and for connected purposes.

Originating House

House of Commons

Last Updated

12 February 2025

In Plain English

AI-generated

The Puppy Import (Prohibition) Bill would ban the import of young puppies into the UK and set out enforcement to ensure the ban is followed. It aims to improve animal welfare, reduce disease risks and curb puppy smuggling by stopping imports of young dogs. If passed, it would apply to importers, breeders, sellers and others involved in bringing puppies into the country.

Key Points

Bans the import of young puppies into the UK.
Aims to improve welfare and reduce disease risk and puppy smuggling by stopping such imports.
Establishes enforcement powers and penalties for breaches.
Applies to importers, breeders, pet shops and other businesses involved in bringing puppies into the country.

Progress

The bill is currently at the 2nd reading in the House of Commons. If it progresses, it would move to detailed scrutiny in a committee before consideration by the House of Lords.

Who is affected?

Importers, brokers and wholesalers of puppiesPuppy breeders and businesses involved in sourcing/importing puppiesPet shops and online platforms that sell imported puppiesProspective puppy buyers and members of the publicAnimal welfare organisations and veterinary professionalsBorder Force and other enforcement agencies responsible for customs and animal welfare compliance

Generated 21 February 2026

Updates & Documents

News (1)

Puppy Import (Prohibition) Bill

12 Dec 2023

The dissolution of Parliament took place on Thursday 30 May 2024. All business in the House of Commons and House of Lords has come to an end and this bill will make no further progress.

Documents (1)

Bill 57 2023-24 (as introduced)

BillCommons

8 Jan 2024

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.