Microchipping Law for Dogs
Under the new microchipping law in England, Scotland, and Wales, all dogs and puppies must be microchipped and registered by eight weeks of age. Breeders must microchip puppies before selling them, and income from dog breeding is likely taxable.
-
A microchip is implanted under a dog’s skin, usually on the back of the neck. It is about the size of a grain of rice and stores a unique ID number. If a dog gets lost and is found, shelters and vets can scan the microchip to get the owner’s contact information and identify the dog. Microchips last a dog’s lifetime.
-
Keepers can be fined up to £500 for not microchipping their dog. If a dog isn’t chipped, the council will order the keeper to do so within 21 days or seize the dog to implant the chip themselves.
Requirements for Microchipped Dogs
- When did dogs have to be microchipped?
Under the new law, all dogs and puppies in England, Scotland, and Wales must be microchipped and registered by eight weeks old. This law came into effect on April 6, 2016, and breeders must chip puppies before sale. Income from breeding may be taxable.
- As well as being microchipped, any dog in public must wear a collar with the owner’s name and address. Cats will also require microchipping in the future.