The EU introduces the first common rules for the protection of dogs and cats: mandatory microchipping and breeding restrictions.

The negotiators of the European Parliament and the EU Council have agreed on a draft law that establishes the first community standards for the protection of dogs and cats. The regulations include the mandatory microchipping of all pets and the prohibition of breeding those with excessive physical traits. The aim is to harmonize measures regarding breeding, sheltering, traceability, and the import of animals, as well as to combat abuse and protect their health. Sellers and breeders will have four years to adapt, while pet owners will have deadlines of 10 and 15 years for dogs and cats, respectively.

The draft prohibits breeding between close relatives and separating puppies from their mothers before eight weeks, with justified exceptions. It also limits the number of litters per female and prohibits the use of animals with extreme traits in competitions. The agreement must be definitively approved by Parliament and Council to come into force. Approximately 44% of EU citizens own a pet, and the trade in them is worth 1.3 billion euros annually.