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Commercial Dog Kennel Laws in Pennsylvania

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commercial dog kennel laws in pennsylvania
Custom 15×40 Kennel with 10 Runs

Starting a dog-related business in Pennsylvania isn’t just about playtime and wagging tails. Whether you’re boarding, grooming, training, or caring for dogs in any capacity, there are state and local rules you need to follow. Pennsylvania has specific standards in place to make sure dogs are safe and businesses operate responsibly. And depending on what kind of service you offer, the requirements can vary.

In this blog, we’ll walk through the different kennel laws that apply to dog-based businesses across the state, so you can run your operation the right way and keep your four-legged clients happy and healthy.

Do I Need A Dog Kennel License in Pennsylvania?

dog license commercial dog kennel laws in pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, you must have a kennel license if your facility houses or moves 26 or more dogs within a single year, or if you run a boarding operation. The state also requires a license if you’re involved in selling dogs or placing them for adoption, according to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

To see what rules apply to your situation, take a look at the city and county section of this blog. We’ve outlined local guidelines to help you stay compliant and avoid any hiccups with your operation.

Do I Need An LLC For A Dog Kennel in Pennsylvania?

dog LLC commercial dog kennel laws in pennsylvania

While Pennsylvania doesn’t require kennel owners to form an LLC, it’s strongly recommended if you’re running your kennel as a business. An LLC helps protect your personal assets by separating them from business liabilities and adds credibility to your operation, showing clients and partners you’re serious and professional. It’s also easy to set up through the state and offers flexible management and tax options. Though optional, forming an LLC is a smart step for protecting and growing your dog-related business.

How Many Dogs Can You Own in Pennsylvania?

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In many towns and cities across Pennsylvania, local ordinances place limits on how many dogs a person can keep at home. For example, some municipalities, like Pittsburgh, generally cap the number at five dogs per household. Others, such as Shamokin, have stricter rules, allowing no more than three dogs per residence. In certain cases, you may be able to keep additional dogs if you apply for and are granted a special permit. These regulations vary by location, so it’s important to check with your local authorities before expanding your pack.

Dog Kennel Regulations By Industry in Pennsylvania

dog kennel regulations by industry in pennsylvania
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Dog Boarding Regulations in Pennsylvania

If you operate or plan to open a dog boarding facility in Pennsylvania, you must follow key state regulations. A kennel license is required for caring for 26 or more dogs annually. Each dog over 12 weeks must be licensed and vaccinated for rabies and Bordetella. Facilities must be clean, climate-controlled, and provide proper enclosure sizes. Licenses are classified by type and number of dogs, with any changes reported within seven days. Detailed records are required, and inspections are routine. Recent law changes allow short-term boarding of out-of-state dogs for up to 30 days. Staying compliant protects your business and the dogs in your care.

Dog Vet Regulations in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, veterinary care is regulated by the State Board of Veterinary Medicine, which licenses vets and certifies technicians to ensure high standards. The board approves education programs, investigates complaints, and enforces ethical practices to protect pets and the public. Whether for routine visits or emergency care, dog owners can trust that licensed vets meet strict legal and professional guidelines. To verify a vet’s credentials or learn more, visit the official site below.

Dog Grooming Regulations in Pennsylvania

If you’re starting a dog grooming business in Pennsylvania, you don’t need a state-issued license or formal certification specifically for grooming. Unlike veterinary care or kennel operations, grooming services are not regulated at the state level. However, you’ll still need to meet local business requirements. This typically includes obtaining a general business license from your city or county and registering your business with the state. Whether you operate a mobile unit, work from home, or open a commercial location, it’s also highly recommended to carry professional liability insurance. This helps protect you and your clients in the event of accidents, injuries, or property damage during grooming sessions.

Dog Shelter Regulations in Pennsylvania

Dog shelters in Pennsylvania must follow regulations to protect animals and adopters. Any shelter housing, selling, or transferring 26 or more dogs a year must have a kennel license from the Department of Agriculture. They’re also required to disclose breeder info, vaccination records, and bite history during adoptions. All dogs must be licensed by three months of age or at adoption. For full details, visit the PA Department of Agriculture’s Dog Law page.

Dog Trainer Regulations in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, dog trainers don’t need a state-issued license, but outdoor training and field trials are regulated. Trainers using designated outdoor areas for hunting, obedience, or competition may need a Special Dog Training Area permit, which covers 50–250 acres and allows year-round use without repeated permits. These areas have rules to protect wildlife and dogs, and specific regulations apply to field trials involving species like raccoons. 

For more details on setting up a dog training area or organizing a field trial, visit the Pennsylvania Game Commission.

Dog Breeder Regulations in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania holds dog breeders to strict standards, especially those with a commercial kennel license. Breeders selling, keeping, or transferring 26+ dogs per year must be licensed and follow rules on housing, care, and record-keeping. Those selling directly to the public or pet stores face additional requirements. Licensed breeders must maintain health records, disclose each dog’s origin and medical history, and meet care standards like proper space, sanitation, and access to food and water. These laws ensure humane, transparent breeding practices across the state.

K-9 Dog Facilities in Pennsylvania

In partnership with the Pennsylvania State Police and local municipal police canine units, the Commission has developed a comprehensive Canine Training and Certification Program. This initiative, officially outlined in the Pennsylvania Bulletin, defines the required standards for foundational and ongoing canine training, as well as the criteria for both initial and yearly certification assessments. The program also outlines proper procedures for recording these evaluations and mandates the secure retention of all training and certification records. All assessments must be documented using the designated Canine Unit Evaluation Form.

The program includes an approved list of organizations authorized to train, assess, and certify police dogs and their handlers. To meet the legal requirements of Act 60, all certification evaluations—both initial and annual- must be performed by one of these listed entities.

Dog Kennel Laws By City in Pennsylvania

dog kennel laws by city in pennsylvania
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Kennel rules in Pennsylvania can differ from one municipality to another and often depend on things like how many dogs you have and the size or type of kennel you’re operating. For the most accurate and up-to-date details, it’s best to contact your local zoning or planning office. You can find contact information for your area in the chart below.

AllentownPlanning & Zoning
AltoonaCodes & Inspections Department
BethlehemPlanning & Zoning
ButlerBoards and Authorities – Planning & Zoning Commission
ChesterPlanning & Zoning Department
EastonPlanning & Development
ErieZoning
HarrisburgPlanning Commission
HazletonZoning Department
JohnstownPlanning & Zoning
LancasterBureau of Planning
LebanonBuilding & Zoning
McKeesportCommunity Development
PhiladelphiaZoning, Planning, & Development
PittsburghZoning Division
ReadingZoning & Planning
ScrantonCity Planning & Zoning
State CollegePlanning & Zoning
Wilkes-BarrePlanning & Zoning
WilliamsportZoning & Planning
YorkBureau of Planning & Zoning

Dog Kennel Laws By County in Pennsylvania

dog kennel laws by county in pennsylvania
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Kennel regulations in Pennsylvania can vary from county to county and often depend on factors like the number of dogs you have, the kennel’s size, and whether it’s for personal or commercial use. For the most accurate and current information, it’s best to reach out directly to your local county zoning or planning department. You can find contact details for each county in the chart below.

Adams CountyOffice of Planning & Development
Allegheny CountyLand Use Planning
Armstrong CountyPlanning
Beaver CountyOffice of Planning and Redevelopment
Bedford CountyPlanning
Berks CountyPlanning Commission
Blair CountyPlanning
Bradford CountyCommunity Planning & Mapping
Bucks CountyPlanning Commission 
Butler County Planning Commission
Cambria CountyPlanning Commission
Cameron CountyPlanning Commission
Carbon CountyOffice of Planning & Development
Centre CountyPlanning & Community Development
Chester CountyPlanning Commission
Clarion County Planning
Clearfield CountyPlanning
Clinton CountyPlanning, Grants, & Zoning
Columbia CountyOffice of Planning & Development
Crawford CountyPlanning
Cumberland CountyPlanning Commission
Dauphin CountyPlanning
Delaware CountyPlanning Department
Elk CountyPlanning Department
Erie CountyPlanning & Community Development
Fayette CountyPlanning, Zoning, & Community Development
Forest CountyConversation District & Planning Department
Franklin CountyPlanning
Fulton CountyPlanning & Mapping
Greene CountyPlanning Commission
Huntingdon CountyPlanning & Development Department
Indiana CountyOffice of Planning & Development
Jefferson CountyPlanning
Juniata CountyPlanning & Community Development
Lackawanna CountyPlanning
Lancaster CountyPlanning Commission
Lawrence CountyPlanning & Community Development
Lebanon CountyPlanning Department
Lehigh CountyCommunity & Economic Development
Luzerne CountyZoning
Lycoming CountyPlanning Commission
McKean CountyPlanning Commission
Mercer CountyPlanning
Mifflin CountyPlanning
Monroe CountyPlanning Commission Office
Montgomery CountyPlanning Commission
Montour CountyPlanning Commission
Northampton CountyDepartment of Community & Economic Development
Northumberland CountyPlanning
Perry CountyPlanning Commission
Philadelphia CountyZoning Permits
Pike CountyPlanning & Mapping 
Potter CountyPlanning Commission
Schuylkill CountyPlanning & Zoning
Snyder CountyPlanning Commission
Somerset CountyPlanning Commission
Sullivan CountyPlanning & Development
Susquehanna CountyPlanning & Development
Tioga CountyPlanning
Union CountyPlanning Department
Venango CountyPlanning Commission
Warren CountyPlanning & Zoning
Washington CountyPlanning
Wayne CountySubdivision & Zoning
Westmoreland CountyPlanning Division
Wyoming CountyCommunity Planning
York CountyCommunity Planning

Find the Right Commercial Kennel for Your Dog Business

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If you operate a dog boarding facility, breeding business, daycare, or training center, having a reliable and professional kennel setup is essential to your success. At The Dog Kennel Collection, we specialize in building high-quality, commercial-grade dog kennels tailored to meet the needs of your business. Each structure is handcrafted by skilled Amish builders and designed for durability, functionality, and comfort. With customizable features such as insulated interiors, climate control systems, washable floors, interior and exterior runs, and designated feeding or storage areas, our commercial kennels are designed to enhance your daily operations while keeping the dogs in your care safe and comfortable. Whether you’re expanding your current facility or starting fresh, our team will work with you to create a custom solution that reflects your brand and supports your long-term goals. Investing in a commercial dog kennel from The Dog Kennel Collection means investing in efficiency, professionalism, and lasting value.