EU adopts landmark rules for dogs and cats

The European Parliament has adopted the first EU-wide regulation specifically addressing the welfare and traceability of dogs and cats, according to a press statement by the EPO. The vote, which took place on 28th April 2026, confirms the political agreement reached in November 2025 and represents what the European Pet Organisation (EPO) has described as a decisive step toward stronger animal welfare, better consumer protection, and a more transparent and traceable pet market across the European Union.

The EPO, which serves as the voice of the pet sector at European level, has welcomed the adoption as a major advocacy success following sustained engagement throughout the legislative process. By working closely with the European Commission and the European Parliament, the organisation says it played a key role in shaping the final framework. Crucially, the regulation clearly recognises pet stores as legitimate and regulated actors within the companion animal supply chain and delivers harmonised and proportionate rules across the EU. The EPO also ensured the final text avoids unnecessary burdens on responsible and professional operators, keeping the scope firmly focused on dogs and cats and 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.’

The newly adopted regulation establishes harmonised EU-wide rules covering breeding establishments, shelters, and selling establishments, including pet stores, which are now formally recognised as regulated and responsible operators within the companion animal supply chain. For the first time, the EU introduces a comprehensive framework that includes EU-wide animal welfare standards for housing, care, and handling, alongside strict breeding rules ‒ among them 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 will be required, supported by enhanced traceability through interoperable national databases and clear, harmonised obligations for all operators regardless of size or legal status.

The regulation also strengthens welfare conditions across the EU by 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.

Looking ahead, the EPO has stressed that effective implementation will depend on consistent and proportionate application across member states. The organisation says it 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 properly aligned with on-the-ground realities.