How to Register as an Animal Dealer and Required Documents Summary | ブリちょく
For Breeders| ✍️ BreederDirect Editorial
How to Register as an Animal Dealer and Required Documents Summary
We've compiled an easy-to-understand guide covering the registration process, required documents, and important points to note when applying.
Key Takeaways
We've compiled an easy-to-understand guide covering the registration process, required documents, and important points to note when applying.
How to Register as an Animal Dealer and Required Documents Summary
If you want to sell living animals such as dogs, cats, reptiles, or birds as a business, registration as a "Class 1 Animal Dealer" is legally required. Many aspiring breeders worry that "the procedures seem complicated," but you're not alone. This article explains the registration process, required documents, and common precautions in an easy-to-understand way. Start by grasping the full picture, then prepare with plenty of time to spare.
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BreederDirect Editorial
The BreederDirect editorial team specializes in care information for animals, covering veterinary care and breeding to deliver beginner-friendly guides.
What is an Animal Dealer Business? Understanding the Legal Framework
An animal dealer business is a system based on the "Law Concerning the Protection and Management of Animals (Animal Protection and Management Law)." Registration is required when you continuously conduct activities such as selling, storing, lending, training, or displaying living animals as a business.
The key point is "as a business." If you sell living animals beyond a hobby and do so continuously and repeatedly, you fall under the registration requirement. While a one-time transfer to a friend may not require registration, if you're unsure, always consult your local government authority.
If you plan to sell living animals as a breeder, you must register for a Class 1 Animal Dealer Business in the "Sales" category. If you engage in multiple business types (e.g., sales and storage), you may need to register for each category separately.
The Registration Process: Understanding 6 Steps
Step 1 | Pre-Application Consultation
First, consult with your prefecture or designated city's animal welfare center (animal welfare administration division). Requirements and documents vary by municipality, so confirming necessary details via phone or in-person is the fastest route, despite seeming roundabout.
Step 2 | Confirming the Animal Dealer Responsible Person Requirements
Appointing an "Animal Dealer Responsible Person" is mandatory for registration. To become one, you must meet one of the following requirements:
At least 6 months of practical experience + graduation from a designated educational institution
At least 6 months of practical experience + a designated qualification (such as Companion Animal Care Technician)
At least 1 year of animal care experience (recognized conditions vary by municipality)
Since qualification requirements differ by municipality, confirm in advance what your local authority recognizes.
Step 3 | Preparing the Housing Facility
The housing facility must meet standards set by your municipality, including cage size, ventilation, lighting, temperature/humidity control, and ease of cleaning. If facility renovations are needed, plan ahead—confirm the current state early and begin necessary improvements.
Step 4 | Submitting Application Documents
Gather all required documents and submit them to your municipal office (mail submission availability varies). Incomplete documents delay review, so use a checklist before submission.
Step 5 | On-Site Facility Inspection
A municipal staff member will visit your facility to verify it meets the required standards. If issues are identified, corrective action is necessary. Preparing your facility in advance ensures a smooth inspection.
Step 6 | Receiving Your Registration Certificate
Upon passing review, you'll receive an "Animal Dealer Business Registration Certificate." The validity period is 5 years, and renewal procedures must be completed before expiration. The certificate includes a registration number, which you'll need when listing animals for sale.
Required Documents Checklist
Below are documents generally required. Some municipalities may request additional documents.
Class 1 Animal Dealer Business Registration Application Form (available at the office or online)
Documents proving the Responsible Person's qualifications (copies of certificates, completion certificates, practical experience documentation, etc.)
Floor plan of the housing facility and surrounding map
Business plan (types and number of animals to be handled, sales methods, etc.)
Registration application fee (approximate: around ¥15,000; varies by municipality)
Personal identification (for individuals)
Certificate of registered matters (for corporations)
Some documents require originals while others accept copies. Confirming this in advance saves you trips back and forth.
Important Points: Key Things to Know Before Registration
Additional Requirements for Dogs and Cats
If you sell dogs or cats, the following obligations apply in addition to standard registration:
Microchip implantation and registration (now mandatory)
Prohibition on sales before 56 days of age (the "8-week age restriction")
For those considering online sales, designing how to incorporate in-person verification is crucial.
Unregistered Sales Are Illegal with Penalties
Conducting animal dealer business without registration can result in fines up to ¥1,000,000. Don't assume you're safe "because we're still small." Always complete registration before starting sales.
Manage Your Renewal Deadline
While the registration validity period is 5 years, renewal procedures must be completed before expiration. Contact your municipality early when the deadline approaches and proceed with renewal. Consider adding the deadline to your calendar to avoid forgetting.
Br-choku's Safety and Trust Framework
For categories requiring animal dealer business registration (dogs, cats, reptiles, birds, etc.), Br-choku requires sellers to submit and undergo review of their registration number and certificate. By allowing only certified breeders who pass our screening to list animals, we create a safe environment for buyers.
For breeders, having verified registration status boosts credibility and improves transaction completion rates. The transparency of "only properly registered breeders operate here" supports Br-choku's overall value.
If you're starting your breeding business, first complete your animal dealer registration. Once you receive your certificate, please consider listing on Br-choku.
