As a responsible dog owner, keeping your furry friend safe is a top priority. While microchipping is essential, a visible ID tag on your dog’s collar is just as important — and in the UK, it’s also a legal requirement.
At The Little Stamping Co., we specialise in hand stamped dog ID tags — designed for durability, style and legal compliance. Here’s everything you need to know about why dog tags matter, what UK laws require and how our custom tags help keep your pet safe and stylish.
📋 What the UK Law Says About Dog ID Tags
Many dog owners are surprised to learn that microchipping alone is not enough. According to the Control of Dogs Order 1992, every dog in a public place in the UK must wear a collar with an ID tag that clearly displays:
- The owner's name
- The owner's address (house number/name and postcode)
🚫 Fines of up to £5,000 can be issued if your dog is found without a tag, even if they’re microchipped.
📌 Optional but recommended: Including your phone number makes it easier for someone to contact you quickly if your dog goes missing.
💡 Why Hand Stamped Dog Tags Are a Better Choice
Hand stamped tags are more than just a fashion accessory — they’re a durable and personalised way to protect your dog.
✅ Benefits of Hand Stamped Dog Tags:
- Long-lasting: Deep-stamped letters don’t fade over time like laser engraving
- Unique style: Every tag is one-of-a-kind and lovingly handmade
- Highly visible: Easy for finders to read your contact info at a glance
- Legal compliance: You can include all the information required by UK law
- Customisable: Add fun touches like your dog’s name or a paw print design
🐾 What to Include on a Legal Dog Tag in the UK
Here’s what we recommend putting on your dog’s tag to comply with the law and make it as useful as possible:
- Owner’s surname
- House number and postcode
- Phone number
- Optional: “I’m chipped” or “Needs meds” if relevant
- Optional: Dog’s name (some owners prefer to leave this off for safety)
Example:
J. Smith, 22, PE1 3AB, 07900 123456, I’m chipped
🛒 Make It Personal Without Compromising on Safety
Our custom hand stamped dog tags come in a variety of shapes, metals and finishes. Whether you want something rustic, modern or quirky, you’ll find a style that suits your dog’s personality—and yours.
Popular options include:
- Four-sided bars to add additional wording
- Bone-shaped tags
- Copper circle tags
- Aluminium lightweight tags for small breeds
- Heart tags for your beloved pup
Each tag is individually stamped by hand, giving it a charming, artisan look that mass-produced tags simply can’t match.
🛒 Why Choose Us?
At The Little Stamping Co., we’re passionate dog lovers who take pride in every piece we create.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Handmade in the UK 🇬🇧
- Fully customisable designs
- Legal ID formats
- Fast dispatch and friendly service
- Ideal gifts for new puppy parents or rescue dogs
📦 Order Your Custom Dog Tag Today
Don’t risk a fine — or worse, losing your beloved dog without ID. A hand stamped dog tag is a small investment for your dog’s safety, your peace of mind and a bit of style too!
👉 Browse our full range of hand stamped dog tags and create your perfect tag today.
🔁 Quick Recap
Why are dog ID tags important in the UK?
- They are required by law
- They help reunite you with your dog quickly
- They complement microchipping for full protection
What should be on a UK dog tag?
- Owner’s name
- Address (house number and postcode)
- Optional phone number and microchip info
Why choose hand stamped tags?
- Unique, durable, and deeply stamped
- Stylish and customisable
- Handcrafted in the UK