What Should you Put on a Dog’s ID Tag?

Introduction

In the UK, dogs in public places are legally required to wear an ID tag with specific details on it. It’s worth checking your dog’s tag actually meets what the law asks for.

Here’s what the law says, what’s worth adding beyond the legal minimum, and what to look for when you’re choosing a tag, including our own range of personalised aluminium tags.

The Legal Requirements

The Control of Dogs Order 1992 says any dog in a public place must wear a collar with the owner’s name and address, including the postcode, engraved or written on it, or engraved on a tag attached to the collar. A phone number isn’t a legal requirement, but it’s a sensible addition, since it means someone can reach you directly rather than trying to track you down another way.

The law applies to dogs over eight weeks old, with exemptions for working dogs such as police or guide dogs. Not complying can carry a fine of up to £5,000.

Microchipping is a separate legal requirement and confirms ownership once a dog has been found and scanned. A tag does the earlier job of helping someone identify whose dog it is in the first place, before it ever gets near a scanner.

Why the Tag Itself Matters

A tag that’s scratched illegible, rattling loose, or missing a digit off a phone number isn’t much use even if it technically has the right information on it. The details need to actually be readable by whoever finds your dog, whether that’s a neighbour, a dog walker, or someone on a country lane.

Choosing a Tag

A few practical things to think about when picking one:

Legibility. Engraving or print needs to hold up to wear rather than fading after a few months of walks in the rain.

Weight. A heavy tag on a small dog or puppy is uncomfortable and knocks against the collar all day.

Attachment. The split ring needs to be strong enough that the tag doesn’t come loose and get left behind somewhere.

Durability. The material should cope with mud, swimming, and general wear without corroding or the print wearing off.

Our Range of Pet ID Tags

We now offer a range of personalised pet ID tags made from aluminium.

Each tag is made in our workshop from 1.1mm aluminium, which keeps them light enough for puppies and small breeds while still holding up to daily use. The designs are UV printed and finished with a gloss varnish on both sides, so the tag is waterproof and the print doesn’t wear off in mud or water.

The back of each tag has room for up to five lines of text, enough to cover your name, address, and a contact number.

Tags come in three sizes:

• 19mm for cats, kittens, small puppies, and toy breeds like Chihuahuas or Yorkies
• 25mm, the most popular size, for medium breeds like Cockapoos, French Bulldogs, and Border Collies
• 32mm for larger breeds such as Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds

Each one comes with a metal split ring for attaching to a collar or harness.

You can see the full range of personalised pet ID tags here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What legally should be on a dog tag?

The owner’s name and address, including the postcode. A phone number isn’t required by law but is worth adding so a finder can contact you directly.

What is the dog ID law in the UK?

The Control of Dogs Order 1992 requires any dog in a public place to wear a collar with a tag or engraving showing the owner’s name and address. It covers dogs over eight weeks old, with some exemptions for working dogs, and non-compliance can carry a fine of up to £5,000. Microchipping is a separate legal requirement that works alongside a tag rather than instead of one.

What should you not put on your dog’s ID tag?

There’s no need to include your dog’s microchip number or any medical information. It isn’t required by law and there usually isn’t space for it anyway. Stick to your name, address, and a phone number.

Should I put my dog’s name on their ID tag?

It isn’t required by law, and some owners choose to leave it off, since a stranger who knows a dog’s name can call them over more easily. It’s a personal choice rather than a legal one, so it comes down to what you’re comfortable with.

What is the best dog ID tag UK owners can buy?

Look for a tag that’s legible, fits securely, and is waterproof rather than just water-resistant, plus lightweight enough that your dog won’t notice it’s there. Our aluminium pet ID tags are built to that standard.

Conclusion

A dog tag is a small, legally required detail, but it’s the thing that gets a lost dog identified quickly. Clear details, a secure fit, and a tag that holds up over time are what make it worth getting right.

If your dog’s current tag needs replacing, take a look at our range of personalised pet ID tags.