Why buy from a licensed breeder?

At My Licensed Breeder, we’ve built the UK’s first verified directory exclusively for licensed dog breeders, designed to help you make informed, welfare-first decisions when choosing a puppy.

Finding a healthy, happy puppy starts with choosing the right breeder. Learn why a licensed breeder in England ensures the highest care and ethical breeding standards.

What Is a Licensed Breeder?

A licensed breeder has been inspected and approved by their local authority under strict welfare regulations. They are required to:

• • Provide a suitable living environment with access to exercise, vet care, and socialisation.

• • Maintain clear records of breeding, health, and sales.

• • Limit the number of litters bred per year.

• • Allow regular inspections from licensing officers and vets.

This system exists to protect both animals and buyers, and we’ve gone one step further.

Licensing in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland protects animal welfare and ensures responsible breeding practices. While the specific regulations and thresholds for licensing vary between nations, the core purpose remains the same: to safeguard the health and well-being of dogs, prevent unethical breeding and puppy farming, and give buyers confidence that their puppy has been raised in a safe, caring environment. Licensing also helps authorities monitor and regulate breeders, promoting transparency, traceability, and high standards of care throughout the UK.

What Does the Blue Tick Mean?

Breeders on our directory with a blue tick are verified Digital Pawprint compliance tool users.

This means:

• • Puppy birth dates and parent details are cross-referenced with breeder records.

• • Vaccination, microchipping, and health documentation is logged and timestamped.

• • Only breeders who meet compliance checks can list puppies for sale.

• • Every listing is linked to breeder-specific records, offering traceability and transparency.

You are still free to contact breeders directly, but the blue tick offers extra reassurance that our system has verified the information