DOG breeders in Wales have until the end of April to meet stricter welfare criteria for dogs and puppies in their care.
From April 30, the law will change, meaning there will be minimum socialisation requirements for puppies as well as a minimum staff-to-adult-dog ratio.
This will affect breeders who keep three or more breeding bitches.
Such breeders will now have to ensure a minimum staff ratio of one attendant to 20 adult dogs and adopt socialisation plans for puppies and enhancement and enrichment programmes for all dogs.
Deputy minister for farming and food Rebecca Evans said: “There has been increasing public concern in recent years over the way in which some dogs are bred in Wales, including in licensed premises.
"The standards that are being introduced at the end of thisnext month are just one example of the Welsh Government’s work to improve dog welfare.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here