Puppies and the Law - Buying and Breeding

Before you buy

• Read Choosing a Murray - make sure the breed suits your home and lifestyle. Good practice
• Find an MRRA Recognised Breeder: see Recognised Breeders Directory and Puppies Available, or send a puppy enquiry. Good practice
• The advertisement shows the breeder's source number and the puppy's microchip number - the law requires both, even for a free puppy. VIC law
• Ask whether the litter is registered with MRRA, and to see both parents' DNA health test results. Then check the breeder's prefix or the puppy's microchip number with MRRA. Good practice
• The mother was at least 12 months old when mated, and has not had a litter in the last 12 months (MRRA's rule for its breeders). MRRA rule
• Meet the mother, and see where the puppies are raised. Good practice

Warning signs - think twice if

• The advertisement has no breeder number or microchip number, or the seller will not give you one. Good practice
• You cannot meet the mother or see where the puppies are raised, or the seller wants to meet you in a car park or deliver the puppy to you. Good practice
• The puppy is offered younger than 8 weeks, is not microchipped, or comes with no vaccination or vet records. Good practice
• The seller cannot show DNA health test results for both parents, or says a "Murray" litter is not registered with MRRA - MRRA cannot vouch for its parentage or health testing. Good practice
• You are pushed to pay a deposit quickly, or to pay by bank transfer before seeing the puppy. Good practice

When you collect your puppy

• The puppy is at least 8 weeks old. Good practice
• The puppy is microchipped, and the breeder transfers it to you on the microchip registry. VIC law
• You get the vaccination and vet records, and are told of any known health or behaviour problem. Good practice
• Get a written receipt, and any conditions of the sale (such as desexing, breeding rights or returning the dog) in writing. Agree in writing
• From an MRRA litter: the breeder records you as the new owner, the puppy goes on the MRRA Dog Register for life, and you become a Puppy Owner Associate. MRRA rule

After you bring it home

• Register your puppy with your local council by 3 months of age, and keep your details on the microchip registry up to date. VIC law
• If you ever need to rehome your dog, contact MRRA's rescue and rehoming service first, and check any agreement you have with the breeder. MRRA rule

Official information: Domestic Animals Act 1994

Before you buy

• Read Choosing a Murray - make sure the breed suits your home and lifestyle. Good practice
• Find an MRRA Recognised Breeder: see Recognised Breeders Directory and Puppies Available, or send a puppy enquiry. Good practice
• The advertisement shows the breeder's Breeder Identification Number (BIN) - the law requires it. NSW law
• Ask whether the litter is registered with MRRA, and to see both parents' DNA health test results. Then check the breeder's prefix or the puppy's microchip number with MRRA. Good practice
• The mother was at least 12 months old when mated, and has not had a litter in the last 12 months (MRRA's rule for its breeders). MRRA rule
• Meet the mother, and see where the puppies are raised. Good practice

Warning signs - think twice if

• The advertisement has no breeder number or microchip number, or the seller will not give you one. Good practice
• You cannot meet the mother or see where the puppies are raised, or the seller wants to meet you in a car park or deliver the puppy to you. Good practice
• The puppy is offered younger than 8 weeks, is not microchipped, or comes with no vaccination or vet records. Good practice
• The seller cannot show DNA health test results for both parents, or says a "Murray" litter is not registered with MRRA - MRRA cannot vouch for its parentage or health testing. Good practice
• You are pushed to pay a deposit quickly, or to pay by bank transfer before seeing the puppy. Good practice

When you collect your puppy

• The puppy is at least 8 weeks old - the law requires it. NSW law
• The puppy is microchipped and the breeder transfers it to you in the NSW Pet Registry. You must be 18 or over to buy. NSW law
• You get the vaccination and vet records, and are told of any known health or behaviour problem. Good practice
• Get a written receipt, and any conditions of the sale (such as desexing, breeding rights or returning the dog) in writing. Agree in writing
• From an MRRA litter: the breeder records you as the new owner, the puppy goes on the MRRA Dog Register for life, and you become a Puppy Owner Associate. MRRA rule

After you bring it home

• Register your puppy with your local council as it requires, and keep your details on the microchip registry up to date. NSW law
• A dog that is not desexed by 6 months attracts the NSW non-desexed fee. NSW law
• If you ever need to rehome your dog, contact MRRA's rescue and rehoming service first, and check any agreement you have with the breeder. MRRA rule

Official information: NSW - changes to dog breeding laws · NSW - breeder responsibilities

Before you buy

• Read Choosing a Murray - make sure the breed suits your home and lifestyle. Good practice
• Find an MRRA Recognised Breeder: see Recognised Breeders Directory and Puppies Available, or send a puppy enquiry. Good practice
• The advertisement shows the breeder's supply number - the law requires it. QLD law
• Ask whether the litter is registered with MRRA, and to see both parents' DNA health test results. Then check the breeder's prefix or the puppy's microchip number with MRRA. Good practice
• The mother was at least 12 months old when mated, and has not had a litter in the last 12 months (MRRA's rule for its breeders). MRRA rule
• Meet the mother, and see where the puppies are raised. Good practice

Warning signs - think twice if

• The advertisement has no breeder number or microchip number, or the seller will not give you one. Good practice
• You cannot meet the mother or see where the puppies are raised, or the seller wants to meet you in a car park or deliver the puppy to you. Good practice
• The puppy is offered younger than 8 weeks, is not microchipped, or comes with no vaccination or vet records. Good practice
• The seller cannot show DNA health test results for both parents, or says a "Murray" litter is not registered with MRRA - MRRA cannot vouch for its parentage or health testing. Good practice
• You are pushed to pay a deposit quickly, or to pay by bank transfer before seeing the puppy. Good practice

When you collect your puppy

• The puppy is at least 8 weeks old. Good practice
• The puppy is microchipped, and you get a notice with the breeder's name and supply number and a signed change-of-ownership form. QLD law
• You get the vaccination and vet records, and are told of any known health or behaviour problem. Good practice
• Get a written receipt, and any conditions of the sale (such as desexing, breeding rights or returning the dog) in writing. Agree in writing
• From an MRRA litter: the breeder records you as the new owner, the puppy goes on the MRRA Dog Register for life, and you become a Puppy Owner Associate. MRRA rule

After you bring it home

• Register your puppy with your local council as it requires, and keep your details on the microchip registry up to date. QLD law
• If you ever need to rehome your dog, contact MRRA's rescue and rehoming service first, and check any agreement you have with the breeder. MRRA rule

Official information: Queensland Dog Breeder Register · Business Queensland - dog breeding

Before you buy

• Read Choosing a Murray - make sure the breed suits your home and lifestyle. Good practice
• Find an MRRA Recognised Breeder: see Recognised Breeders Directory and Puppies Available, or send a puppy enquiry. Good practice
• The breeder is registered on Dogs and Cats Online and the advertisement shows their details - the law requires it. SA law
• Ask whether the litter is registered with MRRA, and to see both parents' DNA health test results. Then check the breeder's prefix or the puppy's microchip number with MRRA. Good practice
• The mother was at least 12 months old when mated, and has not had a litter in the last 12 months (MRRA's rule for its breeders). MRRA rule
• Meet the mother, and see where the puppies are raised. Good practice

Warning signs - think twice if

• The advertisement has no breeder number or microchip number, or the seller will not give you one. Good practice
• You cannot meet the mother or see where the puppies are raised, or the seller wants to meet you in a car park or deliver the puppy to you. Good practice
• The puppy is offered younger than 8 weeks, is not microchipped, or comes with no vaccination or vet records. Good practice
• The seller cannot show DNA health test results for both parents, or says a "Murray" litter is not registered with MRRA - MRRA cannot vouch for its parentage or health testing. Good practice
• You are pushed to pay a deposit quickly, or to pay by bank transfer before seeing the puppy. Good practice

When you collect your puppy

• The puppy is at least 8 weeks old. Good practice
• The puppy is microchipped, and the breeder transfers it to you on the microchip registry. SA law
• You get written details of vaccinations, the microchip and any known conditions - the law requires it. SA law
• Get a written receipt, and any conditions of the sale (such as desexing, breeding rights or returning the dog) in writing. Agree in writing
• From an MRRA litter: the breeder records you as the new owner, the puppy goes on the MRRA Dog Register for life, and you become a Puppy Owner Associate. MRRA rule

After you bring it home

• Register your puppy with your local council as it requires, and keep your details on the microchip registry up to date. SA law
• Have your puppy desexed by 6 months, unless you are a registered breeder or have an exemption. SA law
• If you ever need to rehome your dog, contact MRRA's rescue and rehoming service first, and check any agreement you have with the breeder. MRRA rule

Official information: Dog and Cat Management Board - breeders · SA desexing rules

Before you buy

• Read Choosing a Murray - make sure the breed suits your home and lifestyle. Good practice
• Find an MRRA Recognised Breeder: see Recognised Breeders Directory and Puppies Available, or send a puppy enquiry. Good practice
• Ask for the puppy's microchip number; no breeder number is required in WA yet. WA law
• Ask whether the litter is registered with MRRA, and to see both parents' DNA health test results. Then check the breeder's prefix or the puppy's microchip number with MRRA. Good practice
• The mother was at least 12 months old when mated, and has not had a litter in the last 12 months (MRRA's rule for its breeders). MRRA rule
• Meet the mother, and see where the puppies are raised. Good practice

Warning signs - think twice if

• The advertisement has no breeder number or microchip number, or the seller will not give you one. Good practice
• You cannot meet the mother or see where the puppies are raised, or the seller wants to meet you in a car park or deliver the puppy to you. Good practice
• The puppy is offered younger than 8 weeks, is not microchipped, or comes with no vaccination or vet records. Good practice
• The seller cannot show DNA health test results for both parents, or says a "Murray" litter is not registered with MRRA - MRRA cannot vouch for its parentage or health testing. Good practice
• You are pushed to pay a deposit quickly, or to pay by bank transfer before seeing the puppy. Good practice

When you collect your puppy

• The puppy is at least 8 weeks old. Good practice
• The puppy is microchipped, and the change of owner is recorded within 7 days. WA law
• You get the vaccination and vet records, and are told of any known health or behaviour problem. Good practice
• Get a written receipt, and any conditions of the sale (such as desexing, breeding rights or returning the dog) in writing. Agree in writing
• From an MRRA litter: the breeder records you as the new owner, the puppy goes on the MRRA Dog Register for life, and you become a Puppy Owner Associate. MRRA rule

After you bring it home

• Register your puppy with your local council as it requires, and keep your details on the microchip registry up to date. WA law
• If you ever need to rehome your dog, contact MRRA's rescue and rehoming service first, and check any agreement you have with the breeder. MRRA rule

Official information: WA - Stop Puppy Farming

Before you buy

• Read Choosing a Murray - make sure the breed suits your home and lifestyle. Good practice
• Find an MRRA Recognised Breeder: see Recognised Breeders Directory and Puppies Available, or send a puppy enquiry. Good practice
• The advertisement shows the mother's or the puppy's microchip number - the law requires it. TAS law
• Ask whether the litter is registered with MRRA, and to see both parents' DNA health test results. Then check the breeder's prefix or the puppy's microchip number with MRRA. Good practice
• The mother was at least 12 months old when mated, and has not had a litter in the last 12 months (MRRA's rule for its breeders). MRRA rule
• Meet the mother, and see where the puppies are raised. Good practice

Warning signs - think twice if

• The advertisement has no breeder number or microchip number, or the seller will not give you one. Good practice
• You cannot meet the mother or see where the puppies are raised, or the seller wants to meet you in a car park or deliver the puppy to you. Good practice
• The puppy is offered younger than 8 weeks, is not microchipped, or comes with no vaccination or vet records. Good practice
• The seller cannot show DNA health test results for both parents, or says a "Murray" litter is not registered with MRRA - MRRA cannot vouch for its parentage or health testing. Good practice
• You are pushed to pay a deposit quickly, or to pay by bank transfer before seeing the puppy. Good practice

When you collect your puppy

• The puppy is at least 8 weeks old - the law requires it unless a vet advises otherwise. TAS law
• The puppy is microchipped, and the breeder transfers it to you on the microchip registry. Good practice
• You get a vet-signed vaccination certificate, the date of the last vet check, and any known health or behaviour problems - the law requires it. TAS law
• Get a written receipt, and any conditions of the sale (such as desexing, breeding rights or returning the dog) in writing. Agree in writing
• From an MRRA litter: the breeder records you as the new owner, the puppy goes on the MRRA Dog Register for life, and you become a Puppy Owner Associate. MRRA rule

After you bring it home

• Register your puppy with your local council as it requires, and keep your details on the microchip registry up to date. TAS law
• If you ever need to rehome your dog, contact MRRA's rescue and rehoming service first, and check any agreement you have with the breeder. MRRA rule

Official information: Tasmania - dog welfare

Before you buy

• Read Choosing a Murray - make sure the breed suits your home and lifestyle. Good practice
• Find an MRRA Recognised Breeder: see Recognised Breeders Directory and Puppies Available, or send a puppy enquiry. Good practice
• The advertisement shows the breeder's breeding licence number and the microchip number - the law requires both. ACT law
• Ask whether the litter is registered with MRRA, and to see both parents' DNA health test results. Then check the breeder's prefix or the puppy's microchip number with MRRA. Good practice
• The mother was between 18 months and 6 years old when mated, and has not had a litter in the last 18 months (ACT law). ACT law
• Meet the mother, and see where the puppies are raised. Good practice

Warning signs - think twice if

• The advertisement has no breeder number or microchip number, or the seller will not give you one. Good practice
• You cannot meet the mother or see where the puppies are raised, or the seller wants to meet you in a car park or deliver the puppy to you. Good practice
• The puppy is offered younger than 8 weeks, is not microchipped, or comes with no vaccination or vet records. Good practice
• The seller cannot show DNA health test results for both parents, or says a "Murray" litter is not registered with MRRA - MRRA cannot vouch for its parentage or health testing. Good practice
• You are pushed to pay a deposit quickly, or to pay by bank transfer before seeing the puppy. Good practice

When you collect your puppy

• The puppy is at least 8 weeks old. Good practice
• The puppy is microchipped; the breeder gives you their licence number and tells the Registrar you are the new owner. ACT law
• You get the vaccination and vet records, and are told of any known health or behaviour problem. Good practice
• Get a written receipt, and any conditions of the sale (such as desexing, breeding rights or returning the dog) in writing. Agree in writing
• From an MRRA litter: the breeder records you as the new owner, the puppy goes on the MRRA Dog Register for life, and you become a Puppy Owner Associate. MRRA rule

After you bring it home

• Register your puppy with your local council as it requires, and keep your details on the microchip registry up to date. ACT law
• If your dog will not be desexed, you need a permit once it is over 6 months old. ACT law
• If you ever need to rehome your dog, contact MRRA's rescue and rehoming service first, and check any agreement you have with the breeder. MRRA rule

Official information: ACT - dog owner responsibilities

Before you buy

• Read Choosing a Murray - make sure the breed suits your home and lifestyle. Good practice
• Find an MRRA Recognised Breeder: see Recognised Breeders Directory and Puppies Available, or send a puppy enquiry. Good practice
• Ask for the puppy's microchip number; no breeder number is required in the NT. NT law
• Ask whether the litter is registered with MRRA, and to see both parents' DNA health test results. Then check the breeder's prefix or the puppy's microchip number with MRRA. Good practice
• The mother was at least 12 months old when mated, and has not had a litter in the last 12 months (MRRA's rule for its breeders). MRRA rule
• Meet the mother, and see where the puppies are raised. Good practice

Warning signs - think twice if

• The advertisement has no breeder number or microchip number, or the seller will not give you one. Good practice
• You cannot meet the mother or see where the puppies are raised, or the seller wants to meet you in a car park or deliver the puppy to you. Good practice
• The puppy is offered younger than 8 weeks, is not microchipped, or comes with no vaccination or vet records. Good practice
• The seller cannot show DNA health test results for both parents, or says a "Murray" litter is not registered with MRRA - MRRA cannot vouch for its parentage or health testing. Good practice
• You are pushed to pay a deposit quickly, or to pay by bank transfer before seeing the puppy. Good practice

When you collect your puppy

• The puppy is at least 8 weeks old. Good practice
• The puppy is microchipped, and the breeder transfers it to you on the microchip registry. Good practice
• You get the vaccination and vet records, and are told of any known health or behaviour problem. Good practice
• Get a written receipt, and any conditions of the sale (such as desexing, breeding rights or returning the dog) in writing. Agree in writing
• From an MRRA litter: the breeder records you as the new owner, the puppy goes on the MRRA Dog Register for life, and you become a Puppy Owner Associate. MRRA rule

After you bring it home

• Register your puppy with your local council as it requires, and keep your details on the microchip registry up to date. NT law
• If you ever need to rehome your dog, contact MRRA's rescue and rehoming service first, and check any agreement you have with the breeder. MRRA rule

Official information: City of Darwin - animal by-laws

Before the mating

• You are a current General or Life member, approved as a Recognised Breeder (with your prefix) before the dogs are joined. Otherwise the litter cannot be notified, and its puppies can only ever go in Section B of the register. MRRA rule
• Plan for a source number from the Pet Exchange Register before you advertise. With 1 or 2 fertile females you are a "microbreeder"; with 3 or more you need council registration as a breeding business. VIC law
• Check the mother's age: at least 12 months and not over 8 years when mated (MRRA), and have her checked by a vet before her first mating. MRRA + VIC
• Not more than one litter in 12 months (MRRA), and no excessive number of litters. MRRA rule
• DNA health tests are done on both dogs, and the results sent to the Registrar, before the mating. MRRA rule
• The sire is a Murray River Retriever (MRRA: never another breed). MRRA rule
• Using a stud dog you do not own: its owner approves your stud request on the website, or signs a stud service certificate. MRRA rule
• Agree the stud terms in writing with the stud dog's owner before the mating: the fee or pick of litter and when it is paid, where the mating happens, how long she stays and how she is cared for, and what happens if she does not fall pregnant. Use the stud service agreement. Agree in writing
• Both dogs have a vet check before the mating, and their vaccinations are up to date. Good practice
• Artificial insemination only: both parents are registered with MRRA, and the sire, dam and puppies will be DNA verified. MRRA rule

After the birth

• Notify the litter within 4 weeks of the birth in the Breeder Portal, and pay the litter fee. MRRA rule
• Microchip every puppy before it leaves you. VIC law
• By 12 weeks, give MRRA each puppy's name (your prefix plus no more than two words), microchip number and new owner. The puppies then go on the MRRA Dog Register for life. MRRA rule
• Keep proper breeding records as your State requires, and give MRRA the details if asked. MRRA + VIC

Selling or giving away the puppies

• Every advertisement, even "free to a good home", shows your source number and each puppy's microchip number. VIC law
• No puppy leaves before 8 weeks (good practice). Good practice
• Give the buyer the puppy's microchip number, vaccination and vet records, and anything known about its health or behaviour, and transfer it to them on the microchip registry. VIC law
• Choose good homes - that is the breeder's responsibility. Tell each owner their puppy is on the MRRA Dog Register and they are a Puppy Owner Associate, and that MRRA's rescue and rehoming service can help if they ever need to rehome it. MRRA rule

Official information: Domestic Animals Act 1994

Before the mating

• You are a current General or Life member, approved as a Recognised Breeder (with your prefix) before the dogs are joined. Otherwise the litter cannot be notified, and its puppies can only ever go in Section B of the register. MRRA rule
• Get your free Breeder Identification Number (BIN) from the NSW Pet Registry - needed for any litter, even one. NSW law
• Check the mother's age: at least 12 months and not over 8 years (MRRA), and never in her first season (NSW law). MRRA + NSW
• Not more than one litter in 12 months (MRRA), and no more than 5 litters in her life (NSW law). MRRA + NSW
• DNA health tests are done on both dogs, and the results sent to the Registrar, before the mating. MRRA rule
• The sire is a Murray River Retriever (MRRA: never another breed). MRRA rule
• Using a stud dog you do not own: its owner approves your stud request on the website, or signs a stud service certificate. MRRA rule
• Agree the stud terms in writing with the stud dog's owner before the mating: the fee or pick of litter and when it is paid, where the mating happens, how long she stays and how she is cared for, and what happens if she does not fall pregnant. Use the stud service agreement. Agree in writing
• Both dogs have a vet check before the mating, and their vaccinations are up to date. Good practice
• Artificial insemination only: both parents are registered with MRRA, and the sire, dam and puppies will be DNA verified. MRRA rule

After the birth

• Notify the litter within 4 weeks of the birth in the Breeder Portal, and pay the litter fee. MRRA rule
• Microchip every puppy before it leaves you, and by 12 weeks at the latest (NSW law). NSW law
• By 12 weeks, give MRRA each puppy's name (your prefix plus no more than two words), microchip number and new owner. The puppies then go on the MRRA Dog Register for life. MRRA rule
• Keep proper breeding records as your State requires, and give MRRA the details if asked. MRRA + NSW

Selling or giving away the puppies

• Every advertisement shows your Breeder Identification Number (BIN); show each puppy's microchip number too. NSW law
• No puppy is sold before 8 weeks (NSW law). NSW law
• Give the buyer the microchip number and transfer ownership in the NSW Pet Registry, with the vaccination and vet records. Sell only to buyers 18 or over. NSW law
• Choose good homes - that is the breeder's responsibility. Tell each owner their puppy is on the MRRA Dog Register and they are a Puppy Owner Associate, and that MRRA's rescue and rehoming service can help if they ever need to rehome it. MRRA rule

Official information: NSW - changes to dog breeding laws · NSW - breeder responsibilities

Before the mating

• You are a current General or Life member, approved as a Recognised Breeder (with your prefix) before the dogs are joined. Otherwise the litter cannot be notified, and its puppies can only ever go in Section B of the register. MRRA rule
• Plan to register as a breeder (free) - it must be done within 28 days of the birth, and you can do it now. QLD law
• Check the mother's age: at least 12 months and not over 8 years (MRRA), and physically mature - adult size and weight for the breed - unless a vet approves in writing (QLD law). MRRA + QLD
• Not more than one litter in 12 months (MRRA), and no excessive number of litters. MRRA rule
• DNA health tests are done on both dogs, and the results sent to the Registrar, before the mating. MRRA rule
• Both dogs are fit and healthy, and neither has an inherited condition that could harm the puppies - unless a vet or canine geneticist approves in writing. QLD law
• The sire is a Murray River Retriever (MRRA), and not the mother's parent, offspring, brother or sister (QLD law). MRRA + QLD
• Using a stud dog you do not own: its owner approves your stud request on the website, or signs a stud service certificate. MRRA rule
• Agree the stud terms in writing with the stud dog's owner before the mating: the fee or pick of litter and when it is paid, where the mating happens, how long she stays and how she is cared for, and what happens if she does not fall pregnant. Use the stud service agreement. Agree in writing
• Both dogs have a vet check before the mating, and their vaccinations are up to date. Good practice
• Artificial insemination only: both parents are registered with MRRA, and the sire, dam and puppies will be DNA verified. MRRA rule

After the birth

• Register as a breeder within 28 days of the birth, if you have not already. You get your supply number. QLD law
• Notify the litter within 4 weeks of the birth in the Breeder Portal, and pay the litter fee. MRRA rule
• Microchip every puppy before it leaves you (QLD law); chipping before 8 weeks needs a vet's approval. QLD law
• By 12 weeks, give MRRA each puppy's name (your prefix plus no more than two words), microchip number and new owner. The puppies then go on the MRRA Dog Register for life. MRRA rule
• Keep proper breeding records as your State requires, and give MRRA the details if asked. MRRA + QLD

Selling or giving away the puppies

• Every advertisement shows your supply number. QLD law
• No puppy leaves before 8 weeks (good practice). Good practice
• Give the buyer a notice with your name and supply number and a signed change-of-ownership form, with the microchip number and vaccination and vet records. QLD law
• Choose good homes - that is the breeder's responsibility. Tell each owner their puppy is on the MRRA Dog Register and they are a Puppy Owner Associate, and that MRRA's rescue and rehoming service can help if they ever need to rehome it. MRRA rule

Official information: Queensland Dog Breeder Register · Business Queensland - dog breeding

Before the mating

• You are a current General or Life member, approved as a Recognised Breeder (with your prefix) before the dogs are joined. Otherwise the litter cannot be notified, and its puppies can only ever go in Section B of the register. MRRA rule
• Register as a breeder on Dogs and Cats Online: you need it to sell puppies, and to keep your dog entire past 6 months. A stud dog's owner in SA needs it to keep him entire too. SA law
• Check the mother's age: at least 12 months and not over 8 years when mated (MRRA). MRRA rule
• Not more than one litter in 12 months (MRRA), and no more than 5 litters unless a vet certifies in writing that she is fit (SA law). MRRA + SA
• DNA health tests are done on both dogs, and the results sent to the Registrar, before the mating. MRRA rule
• Both dogs are fit, healthy and free of disease, and the mating is not likely to produce a serious inherited defect. SA law
• The sire is a Murray River Retriever (MRRA: never another breed). MRRA rule
• Using a stud dog you do not own: its owner approves your stud request on the website, or signs a stud service certificate. MRRA rule
• Agree the stud terms in writing with the stud dog's owner before the mating: the fee or pick of litter and when it is paid, where the mating happens, how long she stays and how she is cared for, and what happens if she does not fall pregnant. Use the stud service agreement. Agree in writing
• Both dogs have a vet check before the mating, and their vaccinations are up to date. Good practice
• Artificial insemination only: both parents are registered with MRRA, and the sire, dam and puppies will be DNA verified. MRRA rule

After the birth

• Notify the litter within 4 weeks of the birth in the Breeder Portal, and pay the litter fee. MRRA rule
• Microchip every puppy before it leaves you. SA law
• By 12 weeks, give MRRA each puppy's name (your prefix plus no more than two words), microchip number and new owner. The puppies then go on the MRRA Dog Register for life. MRRA rule
• Keep proper breeding records as your State requires, and give MRRA the details if asked. MRRA + SA

Selling or giving away the puppies

• Every advertisement shows your Dogs and Cats Online breeder details. SA law
• No puppy leaves before 8 weeks (good practice). Good practice
• Give the buyer written details of vaccinations, the microchip and any known conditions, and transfer the microchip. SA law
• Choose good homes - that is the breeder's responsibility. Tell each owner their puppy is on the MRRA Dog Register and they are a Puppy Owner Associate, and that MRRA's rescue and rehoming service can help if they ever need to rehome it. MRRA rule

Official information: Dog and Cat Management Board - breeders · SA desexing rules

Before the mating

• You are a current General or Life member, approved as a Recognised Breeder (with your prefix) before the dogs are joined. Otherwise the litter cannot be notified, and its puppies can only ever go in Section B of the register. MRRA rule
• Check the mother's age: at least 12 months and not over 8 years when mated (MRRA). MRRA rule
• Not more than one litter in 12 months (MRRA), and no excessive number of litters. MRRA rule
• DNA health tests are done on both dogs, and the results sent to the Registrar, before the mating. MRRA rule
• The sire is a Murray River Retriever (MRRA: never another breed). MRRA rule
• Using a stud dog you do not own: its owner approves your stud request on the website, or signs a stud service certificate. MRRA rule
• Agree the stud terms in writing with the stud dog's owner before the mating: the fee or pick of litter and when it is paid, where the mating happens, how long she stays and how she is cared for, and what happens if she does not fall pregnant. Use the stud service agreement. Agree in writing
• Both dogs have a vet check before the mating, and their vaccinations are up to date. Good practice
• Artificial insemination only: both parents are registered with MRRA, and the sire, dam and puppies will be DNA verified. MRRA rule

After the birth

• Notify the litter within 4 weeks of the birth in the Breeder Portal, and pay the litter fee. MRRA rule
• Microchip every puppy before it leaves you, and by 3 months at the latest (WA law). WA law
• By 12 weeks, give MRRA each puppy's name (your prefix plus no more than two words), microchip number and new owner. The puppies then go on the MRRA Dog Register for life. MRRA rule
• Keep proper breeding records as your State requires, and give MRRA the details if asked. MRRA + WA

Selling or giving away the puppies

• No breeder number is needed in advertisements yet; showing each puppy's microchip number is good practice. Good practice
• No puppy leaves before 8 weeks (good practice). Good practice
• Give the buyer the microchip number and vaccination and vet records, and record the change of owner within 7 days. WA law
• Choose good homes - that is the breeder's responsibility. Tell each owner their puppy is on the MRRA Dog Register and they are a Puppy Owner Associate, and that MRRA's rescue and rehoming service can help if they ever need to rehome it. MRRA rule

Official information: WA - Stop Puppy Farming

Before the mating

• You are a current General or Life member, approved as a Recognised Breeder (with your prefix) before the dogs are joined. Otherwise the litter cannot be notified, and its puppies can only ever go in Section B of the register. MRRA rule
• Check the mother's age: at least 12 months and past her first season, and not over 7 years without a vet's written approval (Tasmanian law is stricter than MRRA's 8 years). TAS law
• Not more than one litter in 12 months (MRRA), and no more than 5 litters (Tasmanian law). MRRA + TAS
• DNA health tests are done on both dogs, and the results sent to the Registrar, before the mating. MRRA rule
• Both dogs are healthy, and neither has a known inherited condition unless a vet approves; the mother has had a vet health check (between litters, or at least yearly). TAS law
• The sire is a Murray River Retriever (MRRA: never another breed). MRRA rule
• Using a stud dog you do not own: its owner approves your stud request on the website, or signs a stud service certificate. MRRA rule
• Agree the stud terms in writing with the stud dog's owner before the mating: the fee or pick of litter and when it is paid, where the mating happens, how long she stays and how she is cared for, and what happens if she does not fall pregnant. Use the stud service agreement. Agree in writing
• Both dogs have a vet check before the mating, and their vaccinations are up to date. Good practice
• Artificial insemination only: both parents are registered with MRRA, and the sire, dam and puppies will be DNA verified. MRRA rule

After the birth

• Notify the litter within 4 weeks of the birth in the Breeder Portal, and pay the litter fee. MRRA rule
• Microchip every puppy before it leaves you. Good practice
• By 12 weeks, give MRRA each puppy's name (your prefix plus no more than two words), microchip number and new owner. The puppies then go on the MRRA Dog Register for life. MRRA rule
• Keep proper breeding records as your State requires, and give MRRA the details if asked. MRRA + TAS

Selling or giving away the puppies

• Every advertisement shows the mother's or the puppy's microchip number. TAS law
• No puppy is rehomed before 8 weeks unless a vet advises it (Tasmanian law). TAS law
• Give the buyer a vet-signed vaccination certificate, the date of the last vet check, and any known health or behaviour problems, and transfer the microchip. TAS law
• Choose good homes - that is the breeder's responsibility. Tell each owner their puppy is on the MRRA Dog Register and they are a Puppy Owner Associate, and that MRRA's rescue and rehoming service can help if they ever need to rehome it. MRRA rule

Official information: Tasmania - dog welfare

Before the mating

• You are a current General or Life member, approved as a Recognised Breeder (with your prefix) before the dogs are joined. Otherwise the litter cannot be notified, and its puppies can only ever go in Section B of the register. MRRA rule
• Get a breeding licence, and a permit to keep an entire dog over 6 months. Ask Domestic Animal Services whether the stud dog's owner needs a licence too. ACT law
• Check the mother's age: between 18 months and 6 years (ACT law, stricter than MRRA's 12 months to 8 years), and never after a caesarean. ACT law
• Not more than once in 18 months and no more than 4 litters (ACT law, stricter than MRRA's once in 12 months). ACT law
• DNA health tests are done on both dogs, and the results sent to the Registrar, before the mating. MRRA rule
• The sire is a Murray River Retriever (MRRA: never another breed). MRRA rule
• Using a stud dog you do not own: its owner approves your stud request on the website, or signs a stud service certificate. MRRA rule
• Agree the stud terms in writing with the stud dog's owner before the mating: the fee or pick of litter and when it is paid, where the mating happens, how long she stays and how she is cared for, and what happens if she does not fall pregnant. Use the stud service agreement. Agree in writing
• Both dogs have a vet check before the mating, and their vaccinations are up to date. Good practice
• Artificial insemination only: both parents are registered with MRRA, and the sire, dam and puppies will be DNA verified. MRRA rule

After the birth

• Notify the litter within 4 weeks of the birth in the Breeder Portal, and pay the litter fee. MRRA rule
• Microchip every puppy before it leaves you. Good practice
• By 12 weeks, give MRRA each puppy's name (your prefix plus no more than two words), microchip number and new owner. The puppies then go on the MRRA Dog Register for life. MRRA rule
• Keep proper breeding records as your State requires, and give MRRA the details if asked. MRRA + ACT

Selling or giving away the puppies

• Every advertisement shows your breeding licence number and the microchip number. ACT law
• No puppy leaves before 8 weeks (good practice). Good practice
• Give the buyer your breeding licence number, tell the Registrar who the new owner is, and hand over the microchip number and vaccination and vet records. ACT law
• Choose good homes - that is the breeder's responsibility. Tell each owner their puppy is on the MRRA Dog Register and they are a Puppy Owner Associate, and that MRRA's rescue and rehoming service can help if they ever need to rehome it. MRRA rule

Official information: ACT - dog owner responsibilities

Before the mating

• You are a current General or Life member, approved as a Recognised Breeder (with your prefix) before the dogs are joined. Otherwise the litter cannot be notified, and its puppies can only ever go in Section B of the register. MRRA rule
• Check the mother's age: at least 12 months and not over 8 years when mated (MRRA). MRRA rule
• Not more than one litter in 12 months (MRRA), and no excessive number of litters. MRRA rule
• DNA health tests are done on both dogs, and the results sent to the Registrar, before the mating. MRRA rule
• The sire is a Murray River Retriever (MRRA: never another breed). MRRA rule
• Using a stud dog you do not own: its owner approves your stud request on the website, or signs a stud service certificate. MRRA rule
• Agree the stud terms in writing with the stud dog's owner before the mating: the fee or pick of litter and when it is paid, where the mating happens, how long she stays and how she is cared for, and what happens if she does not fall pregnant. Use the stud service agreement. Agree in writing
• Both dogs have a vet check before the mating, and their vaccinations are up to date. Good practice
• Artificial insemination only: both parents are registered with MRRA, and the sire, dam and puppies will be DNA verified. MRRA rule

After the birth

• Notify the litter within 4 weeks of the birth in the Breeder Portal, and pay the litter fee. MRRA rule
• Microchip every puppy before it leaves you. Good practice
• By 12 weeks, give MRRA each puppy's name (your prefix plus no more than two words), microchip number and new owner. The puppies then go on the MRRA Dog Register for life. MRRA rule
• Keep proper breeding records as your State requires, and give MRRA the details if asked. MRRA + NT

Selling or giving away the puppies

• No breeder number is needed in advertisements; showing each puppy's microchip number is good practice. Good practice
• No puppy leaves before 8 weeks (good practice). Good practice
• Give the buyer the puppy's microchip number, vaccination and vet records, and anything known about its health or behaviour, and transfer it to them on the microchip registry. Good practice
• Choose good homes - that is the breeder's responsibility. Tell each owner their puppy is on the MRRA Dog Register and they are a Puppy Owner Associate, and that MRRA's rescue and rehoming service can help if they ever need to rehome it. MRRA rule

Official information: City of Darwin - animal by-laws

Before you agree

• Your dog is on the MRRA Dog Register in your name, and shows in My Dogs. (Murrays can only be registered in the name of current members.) MRRA rule
• His DNA health tests are done and the results are with the Registrar - MRRA requires this of both dogs before any mating. MRRA rule
• He is registered with your council as an entire (not desexed) dog. VIC law
• The female is a Murray River Retriever, and her owner is an approved Recognised Breeder - otherwise the litter cannot be registered. MRRA rule
• The female meets the age and litter limits - see the checklist for her owner. MRRA + VIC
• Agree the terms in writing with her owner before the mating: the fee or pick of litter and when it is paid, where the mating happens, how long she stays, how she (and your dog) are to be cared for, who pays travel and vet costs, and what happens if she does not fall pregnant. Use the stud service agreement. Agree in writing
• Both dogs have a vet check before the mating, and their vaccinations are up to date. Good practice

At the mating

• Approve the stud request on the website (it comes to you on your dog's page in My Dogs), or sign a stud service certificate with the date of service. Her owner needs it to notify the litter. MRRA rule
• Artificial insemination only: both dogs are registered with MRRA, and your dog is DNA verified. MRRA rule
• Write down the dates of each mating, and keep a copy of the signed agreement. Good practice

Afterwards

• One approval covers one litter. Using him again with her, or with another female, needs a new request. MRRA rule
• The payment or puppy is settled as your agreement says. MRRA does not handle stud fees and cannot settle a dispute about them. Agree in writing
• Keep proper breeding records as your State requires, and give MRRA the details if asked. MRRA + VIC

Official information: Domestic Animals Act 1994

Before you agree

• Your dog is on the MRRA Dog Register in your name, and shows in My Dogs. (Murrays can only be registered in the name of current members.) MRRA rule
• His DNA health tests are done and the results are with the Registrar - MRRA requires this of both dogs before any mating. MRRA rule
• He is registered in the NSW Pet Registry and the non-desexed fee is paid. NSW law
• The female is a Murray River Retriever, and her owner is an approved Recognised Breeder - otherwise the litter cannot be registered. MRRA rule
• The female meets the age and litter limits - see the checklist for her owner. MRRA + NSW
• Agree the terms in writing with her owner before the mating: the fee or pick of litter and when it is paid, where the mating happens, how long she stays, how she (and your dog) are to be cared for, who pays travel and vet costs, and what happens if she does not fall pregnant. Use the stud service agreement. Agree in writing
• Both dogs have a vet check before the mating, and their vaccinations are up to date. Good practice

At the mating

• Approve the stud request on the website (it comes to you on your dog's page in My Dogs), or sign a stud service certificate with the date of service. Her owner needs it to notify the litter. MRRA rule
• Artificial insemination only: both dogs are registered with MRRA, and your dog is DNA verified. MRRA rule
• Write down the dates of each mating, and keep a copy of the signed agreement. Good practice

Afterwards

• One approval covers one litter. Using him again with her, or with another female, needs a new request. MRRA rule
• The payment or puppy is settled as your agreement says. MRRA does not handle stud fees and cannot settle a dispute about them. Agree in writing
• Keep proper breeding records as your State requires, and give MRRA the details if asked. MRRA + NSW

Official information: NSW - changes to dog breeding laws · NSW - breeder responsibilities

Before you agree

• Your dog is on the MRRA Dog Register in your name, and shows in My Dogs. (Murrays can only be registered in the name of current members.) MRRA rule
• His DNA health tests are done and the results are with the Registrar - MRRA requires this of both dogs before any mating. MRRA rule
• He is registered with your council as an entire (not desexed) dog. QLD law
• He is fit and healthy, has no inherited condition that could harm the puppies (unless a vet or canine geneticist approves in writing), and is not the female's parent, offspring, brother or sister. QLD law
• The female is a Murray River Retriever, and her owner is an approved Recognised Breeder - otherwise the litter cannot be registered. MRRA rule
• The female meets the age and litter limits - see the checklist for her owner. MRRA + QLD
• Agree the terms in writing with her owner before the mating: the fee or pick of litter and when it is paid, where the mating happens, how long she stays, how she (and your dog) are to be cared for, who pays travel and vet costs, and what happens if she does not fall pregnant. Use the stud service agreement. Agree in writing
• Both dogs have a vet check before the mating, and their vaccinations are up to date. Good practice

At the mating

• Approve the stud request on the website (it comes to you on your dog's page in My Dogs), or sign a stud service certificate with the date of service. Her owner needs it to notify the litter. MRRA rule
• Artificial insemination only: both dogs are registered with MRRA, and your dog is DNA verified. MRRA rule
• Write down the dates of each mating, and keep a copy of the signed agreement. Good practice

Afterwards

• One approval covers one litter. Using him again with her, or with another female, needs a new request. MRRA rule
• The payment or puppy is settled as your agreement says. MRRA does not handle stud fees and cannot settle a dispute about them. Agree in writing
• Keep proper breeding records as your State requires, and give MRRA the details if asked. MRRA + QLD

Official information: Queensland Dog Breeder Register · Business Queensland - dog breeding

Before you agree

• Your dog is on the MRRA Dog Register in your name, and shows in My Dogs. (Murrays can only be registered in the name of current members.) MRRA rule
• His DNA health tests are done and the results are with the Registrar - MRRA requires this of both dogs before any mating. MRRA rule
• You are registered as a breeder on Dogs and Cats Online (or have an exemption) - needed to keep him entire past 6 months. SA law
• He is fit, healthy and free of disease, and the mating is not likely to produce a serious inherited defect. SA law
• The female is a Murray River Retriever, and her owner is an approved Recognised Breeder - otherwise the litter cannot be registered. MRRA rule
• The female meets the age and litter limits - see the checklist for her owner. MRRA + SA
• Agree the terms in writing with her owner before the mating: the fee or pick of litter and when it is paid, where the mating happens, how long she stays, how she (and your dog) are to be cared for, who pays travel and vet costs, and what happens if she does not fall pregnant. Use the stud service agreement. Agree in writing
• Both dogs have a vet check before the mating, and their vaccinations are up to date. Good practice

At the mating

• Approve the stud request on the website (it comes to you on your dog's page in My Dogs), or sign a stud service certificate with the date of service. Her owner needs it to notify the litter. MRRA rule
• Artificial insemination only: both dogs are registered with MRRA, and your dog is DNA verified. MRRA rule
• Write down the dates of each mating, and keep a copy of the signed agreement. Good practice

Afterwards

• One approval covers one litter. Using him again with her, or with another female, needs a new request. MRRA rule
• The payment or puppy is settled as your agreement says. MRRA does not handle stud fees and cannot settle a dispute about them. Agree in writing
• Keep proper breeding records as your State requires, and give MRRA the details if asked. MRRA + SA

Official information: Dog and Cat Management Board - breeders · SA desexing rules

Before you agree

• Your dog is on the MRRA Dog Register in your name, and shows in My Dogs. (Murrays can only be registered in the name of current members.) MRRA rule
• His DNA health tests are done and the results are with the Registrar - MRRA requires this of both dogs before any mating. MRRA rule
• He is registered with your council as an entire (not desexed) dog. WA law
• The female is a Murray River Retriever, and her owner is an approved Recognised Breeder - otherwise the litter cannot be registered. MRRA rule
• The female meets the age and litter limits - see the checklist for her owner. MRRA + WA
• Agree the terms in writing with her owner before the mating: the fee or pick of litter and when it is paid, where the mating happens, how long she stays, how she (and your dog) are to be cared for, who pays travel and vet costs, and what happens if she does not fall pregnant. Use the stud service agreement. Agree in writing
• Both dogs have a vet check before the mating, and their vaccinations are up to date. Good practice

At the mating

• Approve the stud request on the website (it comes to you on your dog's page in My Dogs), or sign a stud service certificate with the date of service. Her owner needs it to notify the litter. MRRA rule
• Artificial insemination only: both dogs are registered with MRRA, and your dog is DNA verified. MRRA rule
• Write down the dates of each mating, and keep a copy of the signed agreement. Good practice

Afterwards

• One approval covers one litter. Using him again with her, or with another female, needs a new request. MRRA rule
• The payment or puppy is settled as your agreement says. MRRA does not handle stud fees and cannot settle a dispute about them. Agree in writing
• Keep proper breeding records as your State requires, and give MRRA the details if asked. MRRA + WA

Official information: WA - Stop Puppy Farming

Before you agree

• Your dog is on the MRRA Dog Register in your name, and shows in My Dogs. (Murrays can only be registered in the name of current members.) MRRA rule
• His DNA health tests are done and the results are with the Registrar - MRRA requires this of both dogs before any mating. MRRA rule
• He is registered with your council as an entire (not desexed) dog. TAS law
• He is healthy and has no known inherited condition, unless a vet approves the mating. TAS law
• The female is a Murray River Retriever, and her owner is an approved Recognised Breeder - otherwise the litter cannot be registered. MRRA rule
• The female meets the age and litter limits - see the checklist for her owner. MRRA + TAS
• Agree the terms in writing with her owner before the mating: the fee or pick of litter and when it is paid, where the mating happens, how long she stays, how she (and your dog) are to be cared for, who pays travel and vet costs, and what happens if she does not fall pregnant. Use the stud service agreement. Agree in writing
• Both dogs have a vet check before the mating, and their vaccinations are up to date. Good practice

At the mating

• Approve the stud request on the website (it comes to you on your dog's page in My Dogs), or sign a stud service certificate with the date of service. Her owner needs it to notify the litter. MRRA rule
• Artificial insemination only: both dogs are registered with MRRA, and your dog is DNA verified. MRRA rule
• Write down the dates of each mating, and keep a copy of the signed agreement. Good practice

Afterwards

• One approval covers one litter. Using him again with her, or with another female, needs a new request. MRRA rule
• The payment or puppy is settled as your agreement says. MRRA does not handle stud fees and cannot settle a dispute about them. Agree in writing
• Keep proper breeding records as your State requires, and give MRRA the details if asked. MRRA + TAS

Official information: Tasmania - dog welfare

Before you agree

• Your dog is on the MRRA Dog Register in your name, and shows in My Dogs. (Murrays can only be registered in the name of current members.) MRRA rule
• His DNA health tests are done and the results are with the Registrar - MRRA requires this of both dogs before any mating. MRRA rule
• You hold a permit to keep an entire dog. Ask Domestic Animal Services whether you also need a breeding licence for him to be used at stud. ACT law
• The female is a Murray River Retriever, and her owner is an approved Recognised Breeder - otherwise the litter cannot be registered. MRRA rule
• The female meets the age and litter limits - see the checklist for her owner. MRRA + ACT
• Agree the terms in writing with her owner before the mating: the fee or pick of litter and when it is paid, where the mating happens, how long she stays, how she (and your dog) are to be cared for, who pays travel and vet costs, and what happens if she does not fall pregnant. Use the stud service agreement. Agree in writing
• Both dogs have a vet check before the mating, and their vaccinations are up to date. Good practice

At the mating

• Approve the stud request on the website (it comes to you on your dog's page in My Dogs), or sign a stud service certificate with the date of service. Her owner needs it to notify the litter. MRRA rule
• Artificial insemination only: both dogs are registered with MRRA, and your dog is DNA verified. MRRA rule
• Write down the dates of each mating, and keep a copy of the signed agreement. Good practice

Afterwards

• One approval covers one litter. Using him again with her, or with another female, needs a new request. MRRA rule
• The payment or puppy is settled as your agreement says. MRRA does not handle stud fees and cannot settle a dispute about them. Agree in writing
• Keep proper breeding records as your State requires, and give MRRA the details if asked. MRRA + ACT

Official information: ACT - dog owner responsibilities

Before you agree

• Your dog is on the MRRA Dog Register in your name, and shows in My Dogs. (Murrays can only be registered in the name of current members.) MRRA rule
• His DNA health tests are done and the results are with the Registrar - MRRA requires this of both dogs before any mating. MRRA rule
• He is registered with your council as an entire (not desexed) dog. NT law
• The female is a Murray River Retriever, and her owner is an approved Recognised Breeder - otherwise the litter cannot be registered. MRRA rule
• The female meets the age and litter limits - see the checklist for her owner. MRRA + NT
• Agree the terms in writing with her owner before the mating: the fee or pick of litter and when it is paid, where the mating happens, how long she stays, how she (and your dog) are to be cared for, who pays travel and vet costs, and what happens if she does not fall pregnant. Use the stud service agreement. Agree in writing
• Both dogs have a vet check before the mating, and their vaccinations are up to date. Good practice

At the mating

• Approve the stud request on the website (it comes to you on your dog's page in My Dogs), or sign a stud service certificate with the date of service. Her owner needs it to notify the litter. MRRA rule
• Artificial insemination only: both dogs are registered with MRRA, and your dog is DNA verified. MRRA rule
• Write down the dates of each mating, and keep a copy of the signed agreement. Good practice

Afterwards

• One approval covers one litter. Using him again with her, or with another female, needs a new request. MRRA rule
• The payment or puppy is settled as your agreement says. MRRA does not handle stud fees and cannot settle a dispute about them. Agree in writing
• Keep proper breeding records as your State requires, and give MRRA the details if asked. MRRA + NT

Official information: City of Darwin - animal by-laws