Everything You Need to Know About the UK Dog Tag Law
Everything You Need to Know About the UK Dog Tag Law
The Control of Dogs Order 1992 means that all pet dogs (though some exemptions do apply) must wear a collar that includes their owner’s name and address on it at all times when in public. While some owners may think that microchipping their dog is enough proof of identification, this is absolutely not the case and those who don’t comply with the law could be fined up to £2,000.
Dogs that are found without the correct identification could also be assumed to be stray dogs and may therefore be treated as such, which will ultimately entail more fines due to the expenses involved in this process. To avoid these fines, here’s everything you need to know about the UK dog tag law.
What Information Should Be on A Dog Tag?
Under the Control of Dogs Order 1992, the owner’s details can be inscribed onto the collar itself, or most commonly, on a dog tag attached to the collar. A dog tag is an inexpensive and convenient way of presenting information and is therefore generally the chosen method for the majority of dog owners. The dog tag must include both the owner’s name and address on it, including the postcode. This can be just the initial of a first name and the surname, or the entire name if room allows for this.
It’s not mandatory by law to display a contact number on the dog tag, but the inclusion of a mobile number is generally advised so that the owner can be contacted as soon as possible should the dog ever go missing. Likewise, it’s not the law to include your dog's name on the tag, so it is entirely up to you whether or not you want to do this. However, it is worth considering the risks of dog theft, and thieves knowing your dog’s name can make it easier to both pass off the dog as their own to potential buyers and also help the dog to respond to the thieves when calling their name.
Should I Take My Dogs Collar Off at Night?
While it will entirely depend on what your dog feels most comfortable with, most dogs will benefit from having their collars taken off at night to allow that area of fur and skin to breathe for several hours. Being without their collars when in bed, particularly for dogs who sleep in crates, can help them feel more relaxed and in a safe space, and will also eliminate the small risk of potential hazards from occurring such as strangulation or choking throughout the night.
Are There Any Dogs Exempt from The Dog Tag Law?
There are certain dogs that are exempt from the dog tag law, and these include:
- Military, customs or police dogs
- Dogs being used in emergency rescue work
- Dogs being used for sporting purposes
- Dogs being used to herd and drive cattle or sheep
- Dogs that are registered as guide dogs
- Dogs that are being used to capture vermin
- Dogs that are packs of hounds
These dogs are exempt from the Control of Dogs Order 1992 when they are in the specific role listed above. However, those same dogs must comply with the law back when they’re with their owners and walking in a public place.
How Do You Put A Tag on A Dog's Collar?
Dog tags are generally attached to a dog collar in two ways, through an S-hook or a split ring. For an S-hook, you need to loop the hook through the hole of the tag and once on, pinch the hook closed using a pair of pliers. This needs to be done with enough force to gently close the gap to prevent the tag from looping off again once in motion.
If you choose to use a split ring to attach the tag, use both your thumbs to gently separate the ring enough to place the hole of the tag onto the end, and then slide the tag through the ring until it releases into the gap and is fully attached. Both the S-hook and the split ring should only need to be attached to the tag once, as both should be very secure, and the tag shouldn’t ever detach itself.
In need of a dog tag? We have a variety of different sized tags available at Fast Keys, with engraving options available.
Your email address will not be published.