All about tags
Dog tags - maybe a topic you never thought would need to be talked about, but when it comes to tags you may be surprised to find that there is specific legislation regarding dog ID tags and the wearing of collars, and that not everyone seems to be aware of this!
Although many contested areas of dog ownership (for example, harness or no harness?) are down to personal preference, your dog’s needs, and your lifestyle, dog ID tags are actually one of the few things that are specifically required by law. Not only that, what’s to be included on your dog’s tags is also outlined by the law, and a hefty £2000 fine is the penalty for not adhering to this.
As outlined in the Control of Dogs Order 1992, dogs must wear a collar while in public spaces, and either inscribed onto the collar or on an attached ID tag must be the owner’s name and address. A phone number is optional, however it’s recommended by most major dog groups and generally recognised as a good idea to include at least one contact number so that you can be reached right away if your dog is lost.
Working with a range of dogs I’ve seen so many variations on ID tags - some that just say the dog’s name, some with just a number, some with just a postcode, and some dogs who don’t have an ID tag at all! I’m not here to judge owners for what they do or don’t choose to put on their dog’s collar, however I hope some may find this information useful, as I know that it’s definitely not necessarily common knowledge that you have to have this information specifically, or even a tag at all.
In my experience, it’s always better to safe, and having a good sturdy tag on your dog’s collar can be crucial to helping reunite lost dogs with their owners, even if they’ve only gone to the other side of the park without you and another helpful person is just trying to ensure their safety!
As a Walker, I’ve had tags made up with my name and number (pictured above), stating that I’m the dog’s Walker and to get in touch with me if found - the reason I don’t include my address is that these are not intended to be primary tags, just an extra layer of security for your dog and a way for someone to get in touch with me should that become necessary whilst I’m with your dog, as I’m the one in the vicinity and responsible for your dog at that time.
Julius-K9 has a very comprehensive article which can provide you with more reading on tags, the requirements, and the penalties here.
My personal recommendation for good quality, sturdy tags is Pawesome Pet Tags - they’re a small, UK based business, and the creators of my custom tags (pictured above). They’re really clear, durable, and robust, and I’m a huge fan of the way they’re made and how they look! Having put them through every possible weather condition imaginable on all of my dogs, I can certainly attest that you won’t need to replace them in a hurry. However, any tags will do, so long as they include the information detailed above and are attached well to the collar.
Thanks for reading and happy walking!