Cardiff trio sentenced over £640k illegal dog breeding scam

Three people have been handed suspended prison sentences after running a massive illegal dog breeding operation in Cardiff that generated more than £640,000 over five years.

Paul Xuereb, Samantha Xuereb and Matthew Anderson operated unlicensed breeding businesses between 2017 and 2022, deliberately avoiding animal licensing requirements whilst breeding and selling hundreds of puppies through companies including Cardiff Canine Supplies Limited and Colour Coded Frenchies Fertility Clinic Ltd.

Following a lengthy investigation by Shared Regulatory Services (SRS), the court heard how the scale of the operation far exceeded legal limits and involved systematic overbreeding using poor-quality breeding stock, which resulted in puppies being born with congenital defects.

Paul and Samantha Xuereb bred 63 litters together, producing 259 puppies and raking in more than £459,000 in sales. Matthew Anderson bred 35 litters, producing 159 puppies and earning over £181,000.

The defendants also carried out veterinary procedures despite not being registered veterinary surgeons. These included blood testing, artificial insemination and the supply of prescription-only medicines.

Large amounts of cash were seized from properties linked to the operation, whilst bank records revealed the significant income generated from the unlawful businesses.

All three pleaded guilty to offences including fraudulent trading, breaches of the Animal Welfare (Breeding of Dogs) (Wales) Regulations 2014, and illegal possession and supply of veterinary medicines.

At sentencing, Paul Xuereb received 23 months’ imprisonment, suspended for two years, alongside 10 rehabilitation activity days and 180 hours of unpaid work. Samantha Xuereb was given a 15-month suspended sentence with 140 hours of unpaid work, whilst Matthew Anderson received a 12-month suspended sentence and was ordered to complete 120 hours of unpaid work.

Proceedings under the Proceeds of Crime Act are continuing, with the court expected to consider confiscation of criminal assets at a later date, meaning further financial penalties remain possible.

Councillor Norma Mackie, Cardiff Council’s cabinet member responsible for Shared Regulatory Services, said the case demonstrated “a clear disregard for the law” and put animal welfare at serious risk. She added that the sentences reflected the seriousness of the offending and should act as a deterrent.

Residents with concerns about suspected illegal dog breeding are urged to contact Shared Regulatory Services on 0300 123 6696.