List your business freeSign in

Microchips, collars and tags: the law for every dog

Two things the law asks of every dog owner, and the local rules councils can add.

Microchip

All dogs in the UK must be microchipped and registered by the time they're 8 weeks old. You're responsible for keeping the microchip details up to date, for example when you move house.

You can be fined up to £500 if your dog isn't microchipped, or isn't registered on an approved database.

Collar and tag

In England, Scotland and Wales, every dog on a road or in a public place must wear a collar with its owner's name and address on it, or on a plate or badge attached to it (the Control of Dogs Order 1992). A microchip doesn't replace it.

Who doesn't need a collar and tag

  • packs of hounds, and dogs being used for sport;
  • dogs being used to catch or kill vermin, or to drive or tend cattle or sheep;
  • dogs on official duty with the armed forces, customs or the police;
  • dogs in emergency rescue work;
  • registered guide dogs.

Local rules (England and Wales)

Councils can set Public Spaces Protection Orders that require you to keep your dog on a lead, keep it out of some places, limit how many dogs you walk, and clear up after it. Breaking one can mean £100 on the spot, or up to £1,000 in court. Look for the signs, or your council's website.

Keeping your dog under control

A dog is dangerously out of control if it injures someone, or makes someone worried it might. The penalty can be an unlimited fine, or prison, and more if someone is hurt.

Questions owners ask

Does my dog need a tag if it is microchipped?

Yes. In England, Scotland and Wales a dog in a public place must wear a collar with its owner's name and address on it or on a tag, microchip or not.

What must be on a dog tag?

The owner's name and address (the Control of Dogs Order 1992).

What is the fine for not microchipping a dog?

Up to £500, if your dog isn't microchipped or isn't registered on an approved database.

When must a puppy be microchipped?

By the time it's 8 weeks old, and registered with the keeper's details.

Find one near you

Every business you can book on Pooky Dog is checked: ID and insurance, and a council licence where the law needs one.

Where this comes from

Checked against these on 4 October 2026. The law can change: check the source before you rely on it.

More guides