Q944: Does my dog need to be microchipped?

If you have a dog, yes. Since 2016, dogs over 8 weeks old need to be microchipped by law.

The law means that:

• Any dog over 8 weeks old must be microchipped. Very small puppies or those with certain health problems can get a temporary exemption certificate from a vet, but still need to be microchipped when they are a bit bigger or healthier before it runs out .
• Owner details must be kept up-to-date and stored with an approved database company.
• Your dog must still wear a collar and tag with your contact details on when in public.
• If your dog is scanned by a dog warden and found not to have a microchip you'll have 21 days to get them microchipped. If you don't, you could face a fine of up to £500.

Please see the Related Links section on the right for links to further information.