Microchipping and ID tags

All dogs in England must be microchipped. This ensures that your contact details can be easily traced should your pet ever be lost or stolen.

What is microchipping?

A small chip is inserted under your dog's skin, which can be read by a special scanner to quickly find its owner's name and address. 

It is important that when you move home, change phone number, or email address that you update your details with the microchipping company which has registered your dog.

If the details are out of date anyone finding your dog will not be able to contact you.

Your vet may be able to check the details currently registered and help you update them. Most microchip databases charge a fee to update details.

More information on microchipping is available on the Gov.UK web site.

Dog collars and ID tags

All dog owners have a legal obligation under the Control of Dogs Act 1992 to provide their pet with a collar and ID tag that identifies the owner’s name and address, when in a public place. A collar and tag are still a requirement, even if your dog is microchipped.

An owner can be fined up to £5,000 if the dog is not wearing identification.

Dogs exempt from wearing a collar and ID tag in public include:

  • dogs on official duty for the armed forces, HM Customs and Excise or police
  • sport dogs and packs of hounds
  • dogs used for capturing or destroying vermin
  • dogs used for driving/tending cattle or sheep
  • guide dogs for the blind
  • dogs used for emergency rescue work