EU Tightens Leash on Pet Abuse

In a landmark move, the European Parliament and the Council have inked a provisional deal on new EU-wide regulations aimed at stamping out the abuse of dogs and cats. The agreement, reached on November 25, 2025, introduces mandatory microchipping and registration, alongside stringent breeding restrictions to safeguard pet welfare.

Under the new rules, all dogs and cats in the EU must be microchipped and registered in national databases that are interoperable, to enhance traceability and accountability of breeders, sellers, and shelters. This sweeping reform, set to be phased in over the next four to fifteen years depending on the entity, targets the eradication of abusive commercial practices that compromise animal health.

The legislation bans inbreeding and the breeding of pets with exaggerated physical traits that could lead to health issues. Additionally, the use of pets with certain physical mutilations in shows or competitions will be prohibited. The deal also includes regulations for non-EU countries, requiring pets imported for sale to be microchipped prior to entry and registered within the EU, closing loopholes that previously allowed unchecked commercial exploitation of pets.

Veronika Vrecionová, Rapporteur and Chair of the Agriculture and Rural Development Committee, emphasized the significance of these measures, stating, “Today we have taken an important step towards bringing real order to the trade in dogs and cats in the EU. Stronger rules on breeding and traceability will make it harder for abusive and illegal operators to hide.”

The provisional agreement is pending approval by both the Parliament and the Council before the new regulations can become enforceable. This decisive action reflects growing public concern over pet welfare, with statistics showing that a significant majority of EU citizens believe pets need better protection. The new regulations promise a safer, more regulated environment for Europe’s beloved dogs and cats.