A graduate of Hartpury University’s PGDip Animal Welfare, Policy and Legislation (AWPL) programme has played a pivotal role in a major review of dog breeding regulations in Northern Ireland, recently published by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA).
The independent Expert Advisory Group, appointed by DAERA in July 2025, included three panel members, one of whom is a distinguished graduate of Hartpury’s MSc AWPL degree. The group was tasked with evaluating the effectiveness of current dog breeding legislation and making recommendations to enhance animal welfare standards across Northern Ireland.
Key Findings and Recommendations:
· The review found that existing regulations do not adequately protect the welfare of breeding dogs and their puppies, with concerns raised about poor welfare standards in many establishments.
· The panel recommended lowering the licensing threshold to two litters per year, introducing a maximum cap of 25 adult dogs per breeding premises, and raising the minimum breeding age to 18 months.
· Additional recommendations include mandatory veterinary oversight of breeding premises, statutory minimum standards for exercise, enrichment, and socialisation, and enhanced training requirements for staff.
· The report also calls for improved traceability, record-keeping, and a centralised registration system to support enforcement and consumer protection.
The involvement of a Hartpury MSc AWPL graduate in this high-profile review underscores the university’s reputation for producing leaders in animal welfare science and policy. The graduate’s expertise contributed to evidence-based recommendations that, if implemented, will place Northern Ireland at the forefront of dog welfare legislation in the UK and beyond.
Dr Helen Tedds, Programme Manager for MSc Animal Welfare, Policy, and Legislation said: “We are delighted to see our alumni making such a significant impact on animal welfare policy at a national level. This review is a testament to the calibre of Hartpury University graduates and the real-world difference they are making.”
The MSc AWPL degree is designed to develop the next generation of animal welfare leaders, combining scientific knowledge with practical policy skills.
For more information about the review, visit: DAERA Dog Breeding Review
