UK Law Requirements for Pet Tags: What You Need to Know
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When your furry friend is more family than pet, keeping them safe isn’t just a responsibility—it’s a promise. One small but powerful way to do that? A well-made, legally compliant pet ID tag.
If you're a pet parent in the UK, you might be surprised to learn that there's actual law around what your dog must wear on their collar. Let’s break it down simply, so you know exactly what’s required—and what’s recommended for peace of mind.
⚖️ What the Law Says: The Control of Dogs Order 1992
Under the Control of Dogs Order 1992, every dog in a public place in the UK must wear a tag that includes:
✅ The Owner’s Name
This can be your full name or just your surname.
✅ The Owner’s Address
At minimum, you need to include your house number/name and postcode.
📌 Example of a Legally Compliant Tag:
S. Taylor
12 Oak Lane
SW1A 1AA
📞 What About Phone Numbers?
While a phone number isn't required by law, we (and every vet and rescue worker ever) highly recommend it. If your dog ever goes missing, a kind stranger will likely try to call you first—much faster than relying on microchip scanning.
❌ What You Don’t Have to Include
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Your dog’s name
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Microchip info
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Town or county
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Vet details
Some owners prefer not to include the dog’s name for security reasons (to prevent dog theft or someone calling them away).
💡 What We Recommend (The Tag A Paw Way)
We believe a tag should offer more than legal protection—it should reflect the love and bond you share with your pet. That’s why all our tags come with room for both practical info and a personal touch.
Suggested Engraving:
Front:I’m Bella 💕Please help me get home.
Back:R. Wilson37 Lavender RdEH3 9AN07567 2345678
It’s legally compliant, heartfelt, and helpful.