One of the first things a new dog owner should be aware of is the importance of tagging. Not only is it the law, but clear contact information could help you to be reunited with a missing dog much sooner.
This article by Terry Hearn will explain the legal requirements, what information should be included and the different types of dog ID tags available.
- Legal requirements for dog tags in the UK
- Chipping your dog
- Who is responsible?
- Can a dog's microchip be tracked?
- Different types of dog ID tag
- Maintaining your dog's tag
- Collar and tag combos
Legal requirements for dog tags in the UK
The Control of Dogs Order 1992 requires all dogs to wear either a dog tag or collar with the name and address of the owner clearly displayed (a name, house number and postcode are the minimum requirements). Failure to do this could lead to a fine of up to £5,000.
There are a range of dogs that are exempt from wearing a collar and name tag, but only while they are actively working:
- Guide dogs
- Rescue dogs
- Working dogs (sports, farming, police, etc.)
Other information to include on a dog tag
- While it is not a legal requirement, including a contact number can be very useful if your dog were to go missing.
- Adding a QR code to your dog’s tag could give access to more information and contact details than will fit on a normal-sized tag - but remember that you will still need to include the owner’s name and address alongside the code, so you may need to include a second tag with basic information.
- For dogs with medical needs, it might be beneficial to include a note that they require medication as this could encourage people to get them returned home as soon as possible.
- While it may seem obvious, it is not recommended to include your dog’s name on their identification tag - if someone were to find out their name it could be used to gain the dog’s trust and make them easier to steal.
Chipping your dog
Don’t forget that dog tags are just one of the two types of identification that all dogs must have before being allowed into public spaces, the other is a microchip. Having a chip means that even if a lost dog has no collar it can be scanned by a vet and reunited with its owner.
Microchipping is a legal requirement in the UK for all dogs over eight weeks old. The process is simple and can be arranged during a regular visit to the vet. While the cost may vary, it is typically around £15. The microchip is inserted under the skin and is no more painful than an injection.
Once chipped, your pup will have a number that can be used to register them with a recognised national database like PETtrac or Petlog. It is the owner’s responsibility to ensure the information remains up to date e.g. if you move house.
The only exemptions are if a vet has given a written certification that there are health reasons why a dog can’t be chipped - otherwise, there are no excuses and failing to chip your dog or keep their contact information updated on the database could both result in a fine of £500.
Who is responsible for chipping a puppy?
Dog breeders must ensure their puppies are chipped before they can be sold. This applies to both professional breeders and people who own a dog that has given birth. The earliest a puppy can be sold is at eight weeks old, which is also the deadline for getting chipped.
Can a dog’s microchip be tracked?
No, a dog’s microchip can’t be tracked. ID microchips are only used for the identification of lost dogs, not for tracking their location.
While a GPS tracker could be added to a collar or harness, these would require regular charging to keep sending a location signal. In contrast, the microchips used for identification are passive and don’t require any power.
Types of dog tag
Metal dog tags
Stainless steel and brass tags are durable and ideal for the wear and tear caused by active dogs. They are often resistant to rust and corrosion, which is great for dogs who love water.
Metal tags can also be engraved to keep important information visible for longer. However, they can be heavy for young pups and smaller breeds.
TopDog’s metal dog ID tags are designed to be as lightweight as they are durable, and these come in patterns to match all of our harness and collar designs!
Plastic dog tags
Plastic dog tags are typically made from acrylic or silicone, both of which are lightweight and waterproof, but they aren’t as durable and scratchproof as metal. They also can’t be engraved.
A major advantage of acrylic dog tags is how customisable they are. Any colour, shape or design you can think of could be created, allowing you and your pup to match each other’s style and coordinate with accessories from TopDog’s collar range.
Slide-on dog tags
Instead of hanging from the collar, slide-on tags have loops so they can be threaded onto the collar. This makes them secure, ensures they won’t get in the way and are not going to be damaged by chewing.
Maintaining your dog’s tag
- Regardless of how durable the material is, dog tags will eventually wear down and fade, so check regularly that the information is still clear and easy to read.
- Secure the tag with a durable fastener - it doesn’t matter how strong the tag is if it falls off easily!
- Some dogs have an incredible ability to lose their tags frequently despite all your best intentions. In these cases, having a backup tag attached to the collar is a great way to keep them safe.
- If you use different collars for different activities, make sure that each includes the required information, or has its own tag.
Look sharp and stay safe with a collar and tag combo
Losing your best dog friend is a nightmare scenario for any owner and tagging provides a very simple way to get reunited as quickly as possible. Make sure you fix the tag securely and choose a material that suits your dog’s lifestyle so they are comfortable wearing it.
Just because it’s a legal requirement doesn’t mean that tags can’t be a fun way to show off your pup’s personality - TopDog’s range of colourful and durable ID tags will keep your dog safe while also standing out from the crowd!