California Dog Breeder Compliance Checklist (Effective Jan 1, 2026) - “Free California Dog Breeder Compliance Checklist (2026)”
A) Contracts & Deposits (AB 506)
Under AB 506, nonrefundable deposits are no longer allowed for California buyers. This means breeders must update their contracts and processes to ensure compliance.
Key Steps for Compliance:
Remove ‘nonrefundable deposit’ language. Any mention of nonrefundable deposits in contracts for California buyers must be eliminated.
Ensure deposits are clearly refundable. Document timelines and conditions for refunds to avoid disputes.
Separate application fees from purchase deposits. If you charge fees for services like evaluations or applications, make sure they are distinct from purchase funds.
Update website and invoice language. Ensure your checkout process and invoices reflect the updated terms in your contracts.
B) Disclosures to Buyers (AB 506)
Transparency is a cornerstone of California’s new laws. Breeders must provide clear, written disclosures to buyers about the puppy’s origin, health, and any known conditions.
What to Disclose:
Origin/source information. Include the breeder’s identity, the state where the puppy was born, and the USDA license number (if applicable).
Health and veterinary records. Provide a detailed record of vaccines, deworming, medications, and treatments.
Known conditions. Disclose any known diseases, illnesses, or congenital/hereditary conditions—or state that none are known at the time of sale.
C) Importation & Health Certificates (SB 312)
California now requires stricter protocols for puppies entering the state, including the submission of a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI).
How to Comply:
Work with a qualified veterinarian. Confirm your vet can issue interstate CVIs.
Schedule CVI exams carefully. The CVI must be dated within 10 days prior to the puppy entering California.
Submit the CVI electronically. Send the CVI to the California Department of Food & Agriculture (CDFA) as required.
Provide a copy to the buyer. Ensure the buyer receives the CVI before transport or entry into California.
Plan transport timelines. Avoid delays that could push you outside the CVI’s 10-day validity window.
D) Sales Channels (AB 519 - Pet Broker Restrictions)
AB 519 restricts the use of third-party pet brokers, emphasizing direct sales and breeder transparency.
Best Practices for Sales Channels:
Sell directly to buyers. Avoid third-party arrangements where you are not the seller of record.
Clearly identify the breeder. Include breeder and program details on all listings, ads, and sales pages.
Maintain traceability. Keep detailed records of each puppy’s origin and transaction history.
E) Recordkeeping (Best Practices)
Good recordkeeping is essential for compliance and protecting your business.
What to Keep:
Signed contracts. Retain copies of all agreements with buyers.
Disclosure packets. Keep records of the origin, health, and condition disclosures provided to buyers.
CVI documentation. Maintain copies of CVIs and submission confirmations for each sale.
Transport records. Document transport dates, carrier details, and buyer receipt/confirmation.
Compliance folder. Create a dedicated folder for California sales, including templates and completed transactions.
Final Thoughts
California’s new laws are designed to protect consumers and promote transparency, but they also require breeders to adapt their practices. By updating contracts, providing clear disclosures, adhering to health certificate requirements, and maintaining thorough records, breeders can navigate these changes responsibly.
At the heart of these regulations is a commitment to ethical breeding and trust-building with buyers. By embracing these principles, breeders can continue to thrive in the California market while ensuring compliance.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Breeders should consult legal counsel or regulatory authorities for guidance specific to their operations.
Stokeshire • Official References
California SB 312 & Dog CVI Requirements (Official Sources)
For California-bound puppies (sale/transfer of ownership), these are the primary state pages where buyers and transport teams can verify current submission rules and documentation requirements.
- California Department of Food and Agriculture. “Submitting Certificates of Veterinary Inspection (CVIs) for Dogs.” https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/AHFSS/Animal_Health/dog-cvi/. Accessed 12 Jan. 2026.
- State of California. “Certificate of Veterinary Inspection for Importing Dogs.” https://www.ca.gov/cvi/. Accessed 12 Jan. 2026.
- California Department of Food and Agriculture. “Animal Importation Frequently Asked Questions.” https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/ahfss/Animal_Health/FAQS.html. Accessed 12 Jan. 2026.
- California Department of Food and Agriculture. “Information About Livestock & Pet Movement (Entry Requirements).” https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/ahfss/Animal_Health/Entry_Requirements.html. Accessed 12 Jan. 2026.
- California Department of Food and Agriculture. “Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) Requirements” (PDF). https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/ahfss/animal_health/pdfs/CVIRequirements.pdf. Accessed 12 Jan. 2026.