The dog breeding supply number system is broken

In Queensland, anyone who breeds a dog must have a Supply Number (SN), also known as a Breeder Identification Number (BIN). Introduced in 2017, the system was designed so every puppy could be traced back to its breeder. The idea was simple, help the public identify responsible breeders and make it easier to take action against those who aren’t doing the right thing.

A Supply Number should give buyers confidence that the breeder is legitimate, and that the dogs have been bred responsibly. But in reality, the system isn’t living up to its promise.

Our Inspectors see the same problems with the system time and again:

• No verification of breeder details – At the moment, a SN can be issued without proving who you are or where the dogs are bred. False names, PO boxes and incorrect addresses can all be used.
• Multiple SNs per breeder – It’s easy to apply for more than one SN, making it harder to track breeding activity.
• No link to council permits – A SN doesn’t mean the breeder is operating legally under local laws.
• Loopholes for pet shops – Pet shops can use their own SN, masking where the puppies really came from.
• No auditing or enforcement – Breeders can advertise false, stolen or expired SNs without consequence. In some cases, advertisements have been found using false or expired supply numbers, highlighting that many online selling platforms are not verifying whether a supply number is genuine before a puppy is listed for sale.

RSPCA Queensland has called for changes, including:

• Verifying breeder identity and physical address before issuing a SN.
• Limiting each breeder to one SN.
• Recording the category of breeder (accidental litter, hobby, commercial).
• Recording the number of breeding dogs and expected litters.
• Making phone numbers partially visible so buyers can match the SN to the seller.
• Linking SNs to council permits and requiring random audits.

These steps would make the system stronger, more transparent, and far more effective at stopping puppy farms.

Around 230 dog breeding animal welfare complaints are reported to RSPCA Queensland every year, from backyard set-ups to large-scale puppy farms.

Unfortunately, because the Animal Care and Protection Act (2001) doesn’t allow proactive inspections of breeding properties, our Inspectors often only find out about poor conditions after a complaint is received, often after a puppy is sold and becomes sick.

Irresponsible breeders hide behind false details, sell through third parties, and avoid direct contact with buyers, so no one sees the reality of where the puppies are bred. In too many cases, by the time the RSPCA receives an animal welfare complaint, the dogs have already suffered.

If you’re buying a puppy, always:

• Use the RSPCA Smart Puppy and Dogs Buyers Guide.
• Ask for the Supply Number and check it on the Queensland Dog Breeder Register.
• Visit the breeder in person. 
• Walk away if you are seeing red flags.

Read more tips and steps to take when looking to welcome a pet into your family.

If you suspect a breeder is operating without a SN, using a false SN, or breeding in poor conditions, report it to:

• Your local council (for breaches of local laws and permits)
• The Department of Primary Industries (for false or missing BINs)
• RSPCA Queensland (for animal welfare concerns)

The SN system is one tool in the fight against puppy farms, but right now, it’s too easy for irresponsible breeders to exploit it. Until it’s fixed, buyers need to stay alert, do their research, and report anything suspicious.

Learn more about puppy farms.