Every dog owner worries about their dog going missing. It can happen in seconds – a gate is left open, a loud noise causes panic, or a dog becomes lost in unfamiliar surroundings.
In the UK, thousands of lost dogs are reunited with their families each year because they are microchipped.
At Canine Partners, we know how important the bond between people and dogs can be. Whether a dog is a much-loved pet or a life-changing assistance dog, microchipping is one simple way to help keep them protected.
What is a dog microchip?
A dog microchip is a small electronic chip, about the size of a grain of rice, placed under your dog’s skin – usually between the shoulder blades.
Each chip has a unique number linked to your contact details on a secure database. If your dog is found after going missing, a vet, rescue centre, or local council can scan the chip and contact you quickly. The procedure is quick and most dogs handle it with ease, but we recommend using some tasty treats to create a positive experience for your dog.
Is microchipping your dog a legal requirement in the UK?
Yes. In the UK, dog microchipping is a legal requirement. All dogs must be microchipped by the time they are eight weeks old.
Dog owners must also keep their contact details up to date on the microchip database. You could face a fine if:
- Your dog is not microchipped
- Your contact details are wrong or out of date
Remember to update your details if you:
- Move house
- Change your phone number
- Change your email address
Keeping your details up to date is one of the simplest ways to help your dog get home safely.
How much does dog microchipping cost?
Your dog should always be microchipped by a trained professional, such as a vet.
You can arrange dog microchipping through your local vet, animal charities such as Dogs Trust or Blue Cross, or sometimes through your local council.
Microchipping usually costs between £10 – £30, although some charities offer free or low-cost microchipping events throughout the year.
If you are unsure whether your dog already has a microchip, your vet can quickly scan them to check.
Why microchipping is important for lost dogs
No owner wants to think about their dog going missing. But if it happens, a microchip gives your dog the best chance of being reunited with you.
Collars and ID tags are important, but they can fall off or become damaged. A microchip provides lasting identification that stays with your dog for life.
For many families, losing a dog can be heartbreaking. For someone partnered with an assistance dog, that separation can also mean losing vital daily support and independence.
At Canine Partners, all our assistance dogs are microchipped before starting life with their partners, helping make sure they can always be identified and returned home safely if separated.
As members of Assistance Dogs UK (ADUK), we believe responsible dog ownership includes making sure dogs are properly identified and cared for
Common myths about dog microchips
My dog wears a collar, so they don’t need a microchip.
Dogs legally need both. ID tags can fall off, but a microchip stays with your dog permanently.
A microchip tracks my dog’s location.
Microchips are not GPS trackers. They cannot show where your dog is. They only store your contact details, which can be read using a microchip scanner.
Microchipping hurts dogs.
Most dogs barely notice it. The process is very quick and feels like a booster vaccination.
Simple ways to protect your dog
Many people forget to update their dog’s microchip details after moving house or changing phone numbers. Here are some simple ways to help protect your dog.
- Check your details regularly: Log in to your microchip database account, such as Petlog or Identibase, once a year to make sure your details are correct.
- Update your details straight away: If your address or contact number changes, update your records immediately.
- Ask your vet to scan the chip: At your dog’s next check-up, ask your vet to make sure the chip is still working properly.
- Make sure your dog wears an ID tag: In the UK, dogs must legally wear a collar and ID tag in public places.
A simple step that could bring your dog home
If you have not checked your dog’s microchip details recently, now is the perfect time.
Microchipping your dog is quick, simple, and could make all the difference if they ever go missing – helping them get safely back to where they belong, by your side.