Do I have to microchip my dog?
From understanding what a microchip actually does to knowing when puppies must be chipped (and whether it hurts), here’s all you need to know about this important part of pet ownership.
What is a microchip?
A microchip is a tiny, computerised chip, about the size of a grain of rice. This chip contains a unique reference number. If your dog goes missing, a vet or dog warden can scan the chip for the reference number, bring up your contact details, and help you get reunited.
How does a dog microchip work?
A microchip is inserted into the scruff of your puppy’s neck via a small needle, using a tool called an “inserter.” To begin with, a microchip usually has the breeder’s contact details registered to it. Once you bring your puppy home, you can then update it with your own details. Then, if your dog gets lost and is brought into any vet, rescue centre or dog warden, they’ll be able to quickly scan your dog.
Do dogs have to be microchipped?
Since April 2016, it’s been the law that all dogs in the UK must be microchipped by the time they’re eight weeks old. Failure to do this could land you with a fine of up to £500 - although you may be given some time to get your dog chipped before a fine is issued. In addition to a microchip, all dogs must also wear a collar and a name tag too. Apart from being a legal requirement, microchips are a guaranteed way to ensure that your dog can always be returned to you if they’re found. Even if they’ve lost their name tag or collar, it means your dog can always be identified.
Where can I get my dog microchipped?
Microchipping must be carried out by someone who’s properly trained and authorised to do it. In most cases, this will be a vet or a veterinary nurse working under a vet’s supervision. They’ll usually charge a small fee for the procedure. Some breeders are qualified to implant microchips themselves. However, they must have completed an approved training course and been formally assessed as competent before they’re legally allowed to do so.
How can I change my dog’s microchip details?
When you first collect your puppy from the breeder or rescue centre, you should be given the microchip paperwork. This will include details of how to update microchip details with your address and phone number and will generally be done online or over the phone.
As the new dog owner, it’s your responsibility to update the details. Sometimes there’s a charge to do this. You’ll also need to update your details if you move house or change your phone number. If you’re rehoming your dog, you need to pass on the microchip paperwork to the new owner for them to update.
For further information and a list of all government-approved microchip databases follow the link: https://www.gov.uk/get-your-dog-microchipped
Microchipping myths
Like any technology, microchips are not immune to misconceptions. Debunking these microchip myths is crucial for pet keepers to embrace this technology confidently. By understanding the facts, you can contribute to your pet's safety and increase the likelihood of a happy reunion should they ever go astray.
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Myth: Microchips are GPS trackers
Fact: Microchips are a form of identification, not tracking devices.
One of the most prevalent misconceptions is that microchips work like GPS trackers. In reality, microchips serve as permanent identification, providing a unique code linked to your contact information stored in a DEFRA-compliant database. Although they don't offer real-time tracking of your pet's location, these devices significantly improve the likelihood of a reunion if your lost pet is found.
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Myth: Microchipping is painful for pets
Fact: Microchipping causes minimal discomfort during implantation.
Some pet owners worry that microchipping is painful for their furry friends. In truth, the process is relatively quick and causes them minimal discomfort, similar to a routine vaccination. A microchip is around the size of a grain of rice (in other words, it’s tiny). Veterinary professionals and trained implanters use a sterile needle to implant the tiny chip under the pet's skin, usually between the shoulder blades. Most pets barely notice it and the benefits far outweigh any momentary discomfort.
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Myth: Microchip information can be accessed by anyone
Fact: Microchip information is secure and accessible to the right person at the right time.
Concerns about privacy and unauthorised access to microchip information are unfounded. DEFRA-compliant Microchip databases, like Animal Tracker, are highly secure, and the data can only be accessed by authorised personnel at organisations such as vet practices, animal charities, or local authorities.
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Myth: Vets automatically register pets when microchipping them
Fact: Registering your pet is your responsibility, not the vet's.
There's a common misconception among pet owners that once a vet implants a microchip, they automatically register the pet for them. While veterinarians play a vital role in the microchipping process, they don’t automatically register your pet. This is your responsibility.
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Myth: Microchips replace the need for collars and tags
Fact: Microchips complement but don't replace traditional identification.
While microchips provide a permanent and tamper-proof form of identification, visible, engraved tags with contact information can make it easier for everyday people to assist in a lost pet's return. An engraved tag must include your name and address. And the address must consist of your house number and postcode to be compliant. It's responsible pet ownership and the law to use both.
More information
From microchipping and vaccinations to expert advice on your dog’s health, diet and behaviour, explore our range of in-depth guides designed to help you give your dog the very best care at every stage of their life.
FAQs about microchipping dogs
- Written by
- Adam Jolley
- Last reviewed on
About the Author
Adam Jolley is a writer specialising in insurance, personal finance, and pets. He’s worked for Confused.com and Admiral Insurance, and currently writes and edits for an online magazine. His strangest pet was a hissing cockroach. Now, he’s a proud cat dad to Penelope, affectionately known as Nelly.
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