New Animal Welfare Strategy must deliver real change for dogs, charity warns

The Government has published its new Animal Welfare Strategy 2026-2030, with animal welfare groups welcoming the changes but urging that commitments be backed by action.

Dogs Trust Ireland said the strategy marks a milestone for animal welfare in Ireland, especially its commitments to reform dog breeding legislation.

Previously, charities raised concerns at the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Agriculture and Food that the Dog Breeding Establishments Bill does not go far enough to protect dogs and puppies in breeding establishments.

In the Bill, there is a requirement for one full-time employee, working 39 hours per week, for every 20 adult female dogs.

This is simply not enough, as these dogs could have litters, bringing the total to 140 dogs and puppies. This is before any stud dogs or retired breeding dogs are counted.

Dogs Trust say that the legislation should adopt a welfare-outcome approach, where every licensed Dog Breeding Establishment would develop a welfare management plan that covers the needs of every dog and puppy in their care.

This would include each dog's physical, behavioural and psychological needs. As well as appropriate exercise, socialisation and enrichment.

Policy, Compliance, and Research Manager at Dogs Trust, Sarah Lynch said: “ The publication of the new Animal Welfare Strategy is a line in the sand moment to put animal welfare at the heart of Government policy over the coming years. While there are many positive commitments in the strategy, their success will depend on implementation and effective enforcement.

“If we’re serious about improving the lives of dogs in Ireland, then the Dog Breeding Establishments Bill needs to be grounded in reality. Dog welfare doesn't operate on a 39-hour working week. Dogs and puppies require care seven days a week, 24 hours a day, and their needs can become particularly acute during whelping, illness or emergencies. We believe both the legislation and its oversight need to be strengthened to ensure welfare standards are upheld and enforced."