Dog ID tag law in the UK: what must be on the tag

In England, Scotland and Wales, the Control of Dogs Order 1992 says a dog in a public place must wear a collar showing who owns it. Here's what that means in practice.

What the law says

Every dog in a highway or a place of public resort must wear a collar with the name and address of the owner on the collar itself, or on a plate or badge attached to it.

The law asks for a name and address. It doesn't require a phone number, but adding one gives a finder a quicker way to reach you.

Who is exempt

The Order as made lists these exemptions:

Packs of hounds
Dogs being used for sporting purposes
Dogs being used to catch or destroy vermin
Dogs being used to drive or tend cattle or sheep
Dogs on official duties with the armed forces, HM Customs and Excise or the police
Dogs being used in emergency rescue work
Dogs registered with the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association

What happens if a dog isn't wearing one

The owner, or whoever is in charge of the dog, commits an offence under the Animal Health Act 1981. A dog without the right collar may be seized and treated as a stray.

Microchips are a separate rule

A microchip doesn't replace the collar and tag. All dogs in the UK must also be microchipped and registered by 8 weeks old. See GOV.UK and our microchip vs QR tag vs GPS guide.

A PawTrak QR plate doesn't show your name and address, so it doesn't meet this rule on its own. Keep a tag with your name and address on the collar as well.

Where a PawTrak collar helps

Your name and address tag meets the law. A PawTrak QR plate on the same collar gives the finder a quick way to contact you.