This blog post was updated in December 2022.
If you’re thinking of getting a puppy or adopting a dog then you are probably wondering what is the list of things you need to check off on your ‘to do list’ to make sure that everything is ready when your fur-baby arrives.
One of the most important things (yet most overlooked!) is getting your dog an ID tag. Not just a cute accessory, it is a mandatory requirement for pet owners in the UK.
Is it a legal requirement for a dog to wear an ID tag in the UK?
Yes! the control of dogs act 1992 states that If your dog is in a public place they MUST wear ID with the address and name of the owner. However, if they are in the house at home then they do not need to wear one inside. This ID can be in the form of a personalised collar or an ID tag. This law applies whether your dog is on a lead or not.
The fine for your dog not wearing an ID tag can be up to £2,000.
What is the legal requirement for dog tags in the UK?
Here is what the law states on dog tags in the UK:
Every dog while in a public place should wear a collar with the name and address of the owner inscribed on the collar or on a plate or badge attached to it.
We have also included our suggestions for information you should (and should not) include on your dog tags.
There are some dogs that this law doesn't apply to, (mainly working dogs such as police dogs, farm dogs, and dogs for the blind) but if your dog is a personal pet, it will need a dog ID tag to comply with the law.
Here is an example of what the Control of Dogs Order 1992 requires you to put on your Dogs tag:
Jenkins
No.68 Woof Street
CT11 8JJ
01304 532215
(NOTE: the law does not require a telephone number, but this is highly recommended for ease of contact)
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What are the Pros of A Dog Tag?
1. You are complying with the UK law.
2. It helps to keep your dog safe when out and about.
3. Your dog can be easily reunited with you if they do become lost.
4. You can add health conditions to the tag such as ‘I am Diabetic’ or ‘I have Epilepsy’
What are the Cons of a Dog Tag?
Traditional ID Tags can be heavy or cause irritation for a dog when they wear them.
To solve this issue, our Hoobynoo dog tags are printed onto lightweight aluminium. These are durable and strong without having a heavy weight around your dog's neck.
What types of ID Tags are there?
There are many different types of dog tag available out there for your dog to try that can be purchased in pet shops or online.
Our customers have said that they have a preference for our design because unlike the metal engraved tags; ours won’t wear down after time since the tag design is printed not engraved and doesn’t fade.
Our design is both waterproof and customisable to suit your pup’s paw-sonality and breed.
Why not check out our range of stunning designs? We think that a tag should be both practical and fashionable from the Universe Tags to our Marble print Tag, there’s a design for every pet!
To check out our own range of dedicated, personalised dog tags in line with UK law, click HERE
Does my Dog need to be microchipped?
As of April 2016, it is a legal requirement in England, Scotland and Wales for dogs to be microchipped. All puppies must be microchipped by the time they are 8 weeks old.
