Ministers reject dog ownership licence scheme

Image source, Getty Images By Kate Whannel Political reporter Published 24 September 2026 Pet owners will not have to pay a fee to own a dog, after the government ruled out introducing a licensing scheme.

In a report, published on Thursday, , external a panel of animal experts suggested the government should consider new legal requirements for dog owners.

The panel did not reach an agreement on which rules should be adopted but the taskforce said any new laws should aim to promote better dog control, reduce the risk of dog attacks and avoid placing an "undue burden" on owners.

A spokesperson for the environment department said: "This is a welcome report and ministers are considering the taskforce's recommendations, however we will not be introducing a new dog licensing scheme."