EU sets first-ever rules for dogs & cats: a major win for animal welfare & the responsible pet sector
The European Pet Organization (EPO), the voice of the pet sector at European level, welcomes today’s adoption by the European Parliament of the first EU-wide Regulation specifically addressing the welfare and traceability of dogs and cats.
This landmark vote confirms the political agreement reached in November 2025 and represents a decisive step toward stronger animal welfare, better consumer protection, and a more transparent and traceable pet market across the European Union.
A key advocacy success for EPO
Today’s vote marks a major milestone following sustained engagement by EPO throughout the legislative process.By working closely with the European Commission and the European Parliament, EPO has played a key role in shaping the final framework:
– Clearly recognises pet stores as legitimate and regulated actors within the companion animal supply chain
– Delivers harmonised and proportionate rules across the EU
– Avoids unnecessary burdens on responsible and professional operators
– Keeps the scope firmly focused on dogs and cats, preventing the introduction of an EU-wide positive list for all pets.
Although the immediate threat of a positive list has been averted, its continued presence in the adopted text underlines the need for ongoing engagement from the trade through EPO.
“This is a major achievement for both animal welfare and the pet sector in Europe,” said Svein A. Fosså, President of EPO. “It clearly shows that high welfare standards and a responsible, professional pet sector do go hand in hand. The final text delivers a balanced and workable framework that provides clarity, predictability and fair conditions for operators across the EU, while recognising the essential role of regulated operators, including pet stores.”
A landmark framework recognising responsible operators
The newly adopted Regulation establishes harmonised EU-wide rules covering breeding establishments, shelters, and selling establishments, including pet stores, recognised as regulated and responsible operators within the companion animal supply chain.
For the first time, the EU introduces a comprehensive framework including:
– EU-wide animal welfare standards for housing, care, and handling
– Strict breeding rules, including limits on reproduction and bans on close inbreeding and harmful genetic practices
– Mandatory identification and registration of dogs and cats before being placed on the market
– Enhanced traceability through interoperable national databases
– Clear and harmonised obligations for all operators, regardless of size or legal status
These measures will significantly contribute to tackling illegal trade while ensuring both a high level of animal welfare and a well-functioning internal market.
Better welfare rules & workable conditions for the sector
The Regulation strengthens welfare conditions across the EU, introducing requirements on housing, outdoor access, socialisation, and veterinary oversight, while prohibiting harmful practices such as confinement in unsuitable display conditions or inappropriate breeding methods.
At the same time, it provides a clear and workable framework allowing responsible operators, including pet stores, to continue their activities under improved and harmonised standards, supporting informed and responsible pet ownership.
Focus now on implementation
EPO stresses that the effective implementation of the Regulation will depend on consistent and proportionate application across Member States. Key elements include:
– Identification and registration before placing animals on the market
– Mandatory registration of establishments
– Staff training requirements and strengthened veterinary oversight
– New provisions for online sales and cross-border movements
EPO looks forward to continuing to work with EU institutions and national authorities on the development of implementing and delegated acts to ensure the rules are clear, workable and enforceable in practice, and aligned with on-the-ground realities.
