Unlicensed whippet and doberman breeder from village near Peterborough fined £53,000 at court

North Northamptonshire Council became said they became aware of the unlicensed dog breeding activities of Kings Cliffe resident, Edward Howard, of Stamford Road, involving Doberman and Whippet breeds in June 2023.

The council said 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 Howard was found guilty of carrying on a licensable activity without authority of a licence.

Now sentencing has taken place, with the council saying Howard has been handed:

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

He has also been ordered to pay council costs of £7,346.56, and a victim surcharge of £2,000

Cllr Kirk Harrison, Executive Member for Regulatory Services said: “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 two and a half years, and I think the result shows the seriousness of the breeder’s actions.”

The council gave advice on what to look for if you are planning on buying a puppy.

They said:

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