There could be a number of reasons you want to start a dog breeding business. You may love a particular breed of dog and want to be part of keeping the breed strong. You might have bred two different purebred dogs to create a new breed. It's also possible that you're looking for a new avenue of income and dog breeding feels like a viable option. Whatever your motivation, Missouri has basic rules for starting a breeding business.
Commercial Breeder
According to Missouri law, a commerical breeder is somone who has more than three intact adult females and keeps them for the purpose of breeding them and selling their puppies. There is an exemption for hobby and show breeders. These residents are allowed to have up to 10 intact adult females if their purpose is to show the dogs or improve the breed. They're able to sell dogs only to individuals and not to dealers.
Licensing
Anyone who meets the state definition of a breeder must obtain a license. If you're selling puppies to brokers or dealers you may also need a license from the United States Department of Agriculture.
Established Minimum Standards
As a state-licensed dog breeder, you are subject to the same Missouri Department of Agriculture rules that cover other animal care facilities. As an applicant you must pass an inspection to ensure that your breeding facility meets minimum standards of housing, care, identification and record-keeping. An inspection is conducted annually.
Political Climate
Animal advocates have been busy in Missouri, a state that has become known as a puppy mill haven. You can expect to be monitored closely by groups concerned with the welfare of animals. The issue has become politically charged after state lawmakers chose to overhaul a voter-approved crackdown on disreputable breeders, according to an April 2011 Associated Press article on the Huffington Post website.
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