In Great Britain, a dog in a public place must wear a collar with the owner's details. The rule is in the Control of Dogs Order 1992, and GOV.UK adds the microchipping rules. This is a summary, not legal advice.

This guide is based on the public sources listed at the end. We have not tested the products or services mentioned.

The collar and tag rule

The Order says a dog in a highway or public place must wear a collar showing the owner's name and address, either on the collar or on a plate or badge fixed to it. The owner or person in charge commits an offence if the dog is out without it, unless there is lawful authority or a reasonable excuse.

Exempt dogs (article 2(2)) include hounds in a pack, sporting dogs, dogs used to catch or kill vermin, dogs herding cattle or sheep, dogs on official duties for the armed forces, customs or police, rescue dogs and guide dogs for the blind.

The maximum penalty is a fine up to level 5, stated in an explanatory note as currently £2,000. The Order was made for England, Scotland and Wales. The text does not mention a phone number, so a number is optional.

Microchipping

GOV.UK says dogs must be microchipped and registered on an approved database before 8 weeks old. Keepers must keep their details current, and failing to chip or register can bring a fine of up to £500. GOV.UK also repeats that a dog in a public place must wear a collar with a tag showing the owner's name and address.

Buying a tag online

Check the number of lines and characters, the material, size and weight for small dogs, whether engraving is included, the production time and the returns policy, since personalised items are often non-returnable. See which online orders cannot be returned and ordering personalised gifts.

For US owners, the ASPCA supports pairing a microchip with a collar and engraved ID tag, and keeping registry details current. Local licence tag rules vary, so check your city or county.

Last checked: 15 October 2026. Sources: legislation.gov.uk, Control of Dogs Order 1992; GOV.UK, get your dog microchipped; ASPCA, position statement on pet identification.