Fine of over £53,000 for unlicensed dog breeder
Animal welfare and licensing17 February 2026
Unlicensed dog breeding activities have resulted in a man from Kings Cliffe receiving a fine of £53,130, alongside costs of £7,346.56 and a victim surcharge of £2,000.
In June 2023, North Northamptonshire Council became aware of the unlicensed dog breeding activities of Kings Cliffe resident, Edward Howard, Stamford Road, involving Doberman and Whippet breeds.
A full and thorough investigation was undertaken by council officers which resulted in charges being laid and a two-day trial took place at the beginning of September 2025 when Mr Howard was found guilty of carrying on a licensable activity without authority of a licence contrary to section 13 of The Animal Welfare Act 2006.
Sentencing took place on 13 February 2026 where Mr Howard was sentenced to:
- A disqualification order from dealing in dogs (buying, selling, and breeding dogs in any manner which would require a licence) for a period of 5 years, commencing immediately.
- A fine of £53,130
- Pay full council costs of £7,346.56
- Pay the maximum victim surcharge of £2,000
We are determined that the local area will not be used for illegal activities around dog breeding. This case is an example of what happens when dog breeders who don’t engage and follow the necessary rules and regulations. This case has been ongoing for over 2 and a half years, and I think the result shows the seriousness of the breeder’s actions.Cllr Kirk Harrison, Executive Member for Regulatory Services.
When buying a puppy, it is advised that you consider the following:
Do…
1. Ask to see mum and puppy together
2. Visit your new puppy more than once
3. Get all your puppy’s paperwork before going home, including vaccinations, and ensure your puppy is microchipped
4. Walk away if you are at all unsure
5. Report suspicious sellers or breeders
6. Take your puppy to your own vet for a health check as soon as possible
Don’t…
1. Meet anywhere that isn’t the puppy’s home
2. Buy a puppy from anyone who can supply various breeds on demand
3. Buy a puppy that looks too young / small or underweight
4. Feel pressured to buy a puppy
5. Buy a puppy that you suspect has been illegally imported
If you are concerned about illegal puppy sales, you can speak to a member of the North Northamptonshire Council Regulatory Services Animal Licensing team on 0300 126 3000.