Does my dog need to wear an ID tag by law?
Yes. Under The Control of Dogs Order 1992 (Section 2(1)), it is a legal requirement that:
“Every dog while in a highway or in a place of public resort shall wear a collar with the name and address of the owner inscribed on the collar or on a plate or badge attached to it.”
What this means in practice
- Dogs must wear a collar and ID tag in any public place (parks, footpaths, pavements, public spaces).
- The tag must display the owner’s name and full address, including postcode.
- Dogs without this information may be treated as strays.
- Owners can be prosecuted under the Animal Health Act 1981.
What information must be on a dog ID tag?
Legally required:
- Owner’s full name
- Address (house number or name, street, postcode)
Strongly recommended (not legally required):
- Phone number(s)
- “I’m microchipped”
- Medical notes (e.g. allergies or medication)
Example of a legally compliant ID tag
J. SMITH 12 HIGH STREET AB1 2CD 07900 123456 I’M MICROCHIPPED
Why QR-code-only tags do not comply with UK law
QR-code tags are often marketed as modern alternatives, but they fail to meet UK legal requirements.
1. They do not meet legal requirements
The law requires the owner’s name and address to be directly visible on the collar or tag. A QR code links to external information and does not display these details.
2. They are impractical in real situations
- Require a smartphone and internet access
- Delay identification when time matters
- Can fail due to damage, wear, or poor positioning
- Rely on external data storage and privacy controls
An engraved tag shows the required information instantly, without technology.
Engraved tags vs QR-only tags
| Requirement | Engraved Tag | QR-Only Tag |
|---|---|---|
| Visible name & address | ✅ | ❌ |
| Works without technology | ✅ | ❌ |
| Clear to councils & authorities | ✅ | ❌ |
| Durable and readable | ✅ | ❌ |
| UK law compliant | ✅ | ❌ |
What about cats?
There is no legal requirement for cats to wear ID tags.
However, microchipping is now compulsory for both dogs and cats, and ID tags are still strongly recommended.
Best practice for UK pet ID tags
- Use a permanently engraved metal tag
- Include name, address, postcode, and phone number
- Attach the tag to a collar (not just a harness)
- Keep microchip details up to date
All of our tags, including those suitable for very small dogs and puppies, have enough space for full, legally compliant contact details.
