The web Browser you are currently using is unsupported, and some features of this site may not work as intended. Please update to a modern browser such as Chrome, Firefox or Edge to experience all features Michigan.gov has to offer.
Large-Scale Dog Breeding Kennel Registration
Expires: Annually on December 31
Fee: $500 per registration annually
Email: MDARD-BreedingKennels@Michigan.gov
Phone: Large-scale Dog Breeding Kennel Program 800-292-3939
Forms: Large Scale Dog Breeding Kennel Registration Application
Who needs a large-scale dog breeding kennel registration with MDARD?
Facilities that house more than 15 intact female dogs that have whelped before.
If you do not know if you qualify, review our registration FAQ.
There may be additional local kennel requirements. Contact your local township, city and county officials.
What are the large-scale dog breeding kennel facility requirements?
Act 287 and Regulation 151 contains animal care, facility, personnel and record-keeping requirements for operating a large-scale dog breeding kennel.We have summarized the main requirements in a handout.
For additional information or questions, contact MDARD at 517-284-5682 or MDARD-BreedingKennels@Michigan.gov
How do I apply for a registration?
Complete the Large-Scale Dog Breeding Kennel Registration Application and mail to MDARD: P.O. Box 30776, Lansing, MI 48909-8276.
Once the complete application is received, MDARD will contact you to initiate an inspection.
What are the importation requirements for large-scale dog breeding kennel?
What is a pet health certificate?
A pet health certificate is a form, provided online by MDARD, which must be filled out and issued by a Michigan licensed veterinarian. This certificate is valid for 30 days from the date the animal was examined. More information can be found in the Pet Health Certificate Instructions. A large-scale dog breeding kennel must provide a valid pet health certificate with any dog that is sold, exchanged, transferred or delivered. Additionally, a large-scale dog breeding kennel cannot sell, exchange or transfer a dog that is less than eight weeks old.
How are complaints made about large-scale dog breeding kennels?
If you have concerns about a large-scale dog breeding kennel you may file an online complaint with MDARD. Please include all of your contact information, the name and location of the facility, the time and date you were at the facility, and specific puppy or dog information and concerns.
If you have a complaint about a small-scale dog breeding kennel or hobby breeder, you must contact the local animal control or animal law enforcement agency in the jurisdiction where the facility is located. MDARD only oversees large-scale dog breeding kennels. All dog breeding kennels may be subject to local animal ordinances and local zoning ordinances.
Additional Regulations and Resources:
Dog Law of 1919: Public Act 339 of 1919
Provides for the licensing of dogs and local dog kennels, empowers local ordinances, and provides for local animal control.
Regulation 129: Governing Dog Kennels
Provides minimum kennel requirements for kennels licensed and inspected by local units of government per the Dog Law. Large-scale dog breeding kennels are not exempted in Act 287 from these local requirements.
Provides minimum standard of care for animals, defines animal neglect, defines animal cruelty, and provides penalties.