Apply to walk a group of five to 12 dogs

We have made a new rule for walking multiple dogs that starts on 1 January 2026.

From 1 January 2026, anyone walking more than four dogs at once must apply to us for approval and follow set rules.

The maximum number of dogs you will be allowed to walk at one time is 12. However, two or more people cannot walk more than 24 dogs at one time. 

Who must apply for approval 

You must apply if you:

• run a commercial dog walking business (this does not include employees or volunteers)
• breed, rescue and foster dogs (this does not include employees or volunteers)
• you are a dog owner who walks more than four dogs at once. 

How to apply

Email dogregistration@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz to apply. Include this information in your email: 

• type of application (choose one):
  • commercial dog walking business
  • dog breeder
  • dog fosterer
  • dog rescuer
  • dog owner
• your details:
  • full legal name
  • name of business or organisation
  • address
  • postal address (if different to address)
  • date of birth
  • primary contact number
  • secondary contact number
  • email address
• details of all the dog walkers. You need to copy and complete this section for every dog walker: 
  • full legal name 
  • date of birth 
  • primary contact number
  • secondary contact number
  • email address
  • number of dogs walked at one time 
• vehicle information:
  • registration number of all the vehicles which will be used to transport dogs for walking. 

If any of your details change after you have been approved, you will need to email us again with your updated information. 

What happens next 

We will email you a Certificate of Approval after we receive all the required information. It is valid for 12 months. 

You will need to re-apply every 12 months. 

When do you need to present the Certificate of Approval 

A dog control officer can ask you to present your certificate when walking more than four dogs in any public place. 

You may also need to provide details of the dogs including: 

• owner ID (if known)
• owner name
• registration number
• microchip number.

Get a copy of the rules 

Download the copy to find out rules you must follow while walking the dogs including:

• what you and the dogs must wear for visibility 
• what equipment you need 
• how to walk the dogs in a group 
• minimum age requirements and skills.