If you've already bred a litter, rest assured that we've got the detail you need to continue breeding responsibly and ethically. This section offers key insights and essential information, without guiding you through each stage of the pregnancy. However, should you ever need a refresher, feel free to explore our first-time breeders section to learn more.
Understand your breed

You can find out everything you need to know about your breed in our Breeds A to Z.
This area contains information on your breeds; breed standard, characteristics, colours, health screening, breeding restrictions and breed watch categorisation.
Registration
Navigate the registration process with ease using our informative resources below:
Health and breeding
At the heart of responsible breeding lies a commitment to health and welfare. Discover our wealth of resources on health screening, genetic testing, and breeding advice aimed at promoting the well-being of both parent dogs and their offspring.
- The Kennel Club Assured Breeders area
- Step-by-step guide to health screening
- Health screening schemes, DNA testing and breeding advice
- Health Test Results Finder
- Estimated Breeding Values (found as part of out Health Test Results Finder)
- Inbreeding calculators
- Parentage analysis
- DNA profiling
- Dog breeding regulations
- Breed Record Supplement
Information on breeding
Explore our comprehensive guide covering all aspects of responsible breeding, from determining if breeding is right for your dog to understanding breeding crossbreeds and navigating pregnancy and whelping.
Digital puppy pack
They have found their forever home, so give them the best start with confidence. Simplify the process with our digital puppy pack, which allows you to:
-
Ensure their safety effortlessly with 5 weeks of free KCPI, thanks to automated COO and complimentary cover emails.
-
Share your valuable insights on the breed and your dog seamlessly, including feeding times, grooming tips, and more, to help new owners feel prepared and supported.
-
Automate many of the necessary details to free up your valuable time.
Tax guidance for dog breeders
If you're breeding dogs and selling puppies – whether as a primary income or as a hobby alongside other work – it's important to understand your responsibilities when it comes to tax. As you might need to report your earnings and potentially pay tax.
Some breeders often don’t consider themselves as operating a business or trading. But if you are earning over £1,000 a year from selling dogs or puppies then you’ll need to tell HMRC and potentially pay tax on the money you make.
Click the following link if you’re not sure what to do: Check if you need to tell HMRC about additional income - GOV.UK
HMRC wants to help people get on the right track with their taxes to avoid any tax surprises. Visit I’ve got a side gig for more help.
Key things to be aware of
- If you earn £1,000 or less per year from breeding and selling dogs (and any other trading income), you don’t need to pay tax – but it’s still important to keep accurate records.
- If your trading income is over £1,000 per year, you’ll need to register as a sole trader with HMRC and may need to pay tax.
- Some believe they don’t need to report income unless they earn over £3,000. This is incorrect – the threshold is £1,000.
- It’s straightforward to register, and doing so means you’ll be recognised as self-employed for tax purposes.
- Its important to keep clear, accurate records of all sales, income, and business expenses – even if you work with an accountant. These records will be necessary when completing your tax return.
Puppy resources
Read our extensive collection of resources designed to support you through every stage of your puppy's life. From the crucial first eight weeks to vaccinations, microchipping, and managing common issues like worms and diarrhea, we've got the detail and guidance you need.