Slovakia approves ban on commercial pet breeding

The Slovak Parliament has approved a legislative proposal to significantly restrict the commercial breeding of dogs and cats. The new law aims to combat the issue of unregulated breeding facilities, which Agriculture Minister Richard Takáč previously identified as a major problem in the country.

Under the proposed rules, commercial breeding will be generally prohibited, though exceptions will be made for registered purebred animals with certificates of origin. Owners of purebred kittens will also be required to ensure animals are microchipped for central registration before sale or donation. If signed by President Peter Pellegrini, the regulations are expected to take effect next year, allowing breeders a transitional period to adapt.

In a separate domestic development, the Slovak pork industry is facing significant challenges. Currently, Slovakia imports 72 percent of its pork consumption. Local producers are struggling with low purchase prices, high feed costs, and a generational shift in labor. Several agricultural enterprises, including PD Veľký Ďur, PD Sokolce, and PD Poriadie, have ceased pig farming in 2026, resulting in the loss of long-standing genetic lineages.