Government moves to end prolonged confinement of dogs

The Government is consulting on draft regulations to end prolonged confinement of dogs in crates, cages or kennels, Associate Agriculture Minister Andrew Hoggard announced. The proposals aim to address cases where dogs are confined for extended periods without exercise, company or space to move, which can lead to anxiety, fear and aggression. SPCA inspectors reported receiving more than 400 complaints about prolonged confinement in the 2024/25 financial year, prompting the Government to act.

Under the proposals, Animal Welfare Inspectors would be empowered to issue a $500 infringement notice if they identify two or more signs of prolonged confinement. These signs include accumulated faeces or urine, a damaged enclosure, injuries, muscle wastage, overgrown nails, fly bite dermatitis and excessive frustration in the dog. The Government emphasises that routine, short-term confinement such as overnight kennelling or crating for travel or training is not targeted by these rules.

The Minister clarified that responsible practices like night-time kennelling on farms or crating for toilet training, vet visits or house moves remain unaffected. The proposals are designed to address only the small minority of cases where dogs are confined day after day to the point of visible harm. The Government stresses that compliance with basic welfare needs—regular exercise, company and adequate space—will continue to be the standard.

Public feedback is invited on the proposed signs of harm, the level of the infringement fee, and whether the rules adequately protect normal short-term confinement. The consultation also seeks input on dog breeding practices to reduce the number of dangerous or roaming dogs, as well as on commercial services such as day care, boarding kennels, walkers and groomers. Submissions open on 12 October and close at 5pm on 23 November 2026.