Dog law in Belgium: breeding, sale, identification
What a dog breeder, seller or owner needs to know in Belgium, Walloon rules first: licence, microchip and DogID, transfer age, ads, prohibitions.
Key points
- Selling puppies, even a single litter a year, requires an SPW breeding licence.
- Microchip and DogID registration before 8 weeks and before any transfer.
- Minimum transfer age: 8 weeks.
- Ear and tail docking prohibited, except for medical reasons.
- Electric shock collars are banned in Wallonia.
Dog breeding categories (Wallonia)
| Category | Litters per year | Shown in ads |
|---|---|---|
| Occasional breeding | 1 | Licence number and category |
| Hobby breeding | 2 to 5 | Licence number and category |
| Professional breeding | More than 5 | Licence number and category |
Obligations and good practice
Selling or rehoming a puppy
- Ad with licence number, age, sex, breed, the puppy’s microchip number (or the mother’s for a litter that is too young), price.
- Puppy vaccinated for its age, vaccination booklet and guarantee certificate given to the buyer.
- Central register extract (keeping permit) requested from the buyer.
- Transfer registered in DogID in the new keeper’s name.
Stud service
- Stud dog and bitch identified; LOSH pedigree for registered purebred dogs.
- Written stud contract: price, terms if it fails, documents provided.
- On Animoo, stud ads are reserved for breeders with a verified licence.
Day to day
- Leads, muzzles and so-called dangerous dogs: your municipality’s by-laws.
- Travel abroad: European pet passport and rabies vaccine.
Frequently asked questions
Can I sell a single litter from my dog without a licence?
No. In Wallonia, even a single litter a year requires an SPW occasional breeding licence. The licence number must appear in the ad.
Must a puppy be microchipped before sale?
Yes: it is microchipped and registered in DogID before 8 weeks and, in any case, before the transfer.
Are shock collars allowed?
No, the Walloon Animal Welfare Code bans electric shock collars.
Learn more
- Complete guide to Belgian law (all animals)
- Animal welfare in Wallonia (SPW)
- DogID
- Dog or cat breeder licence
This guide is for information; it does not replace the official texts. If in doubt, contact your Region’s administration.