The Scoop on Dog Tags and Microchips

Let’s be honest—dogs are curious little explorers. One minute they’re snoozing in the sun, the next they’re slipping out the gate in pursuit of a squirrel. If your pup ever gets lost, having the right ID can make all the difference in getting them back to you quickly. Dog tags and microchips are two simple tools that work together to help bring lost dogs home.

Dog Tags: Quick + Easy ID

Dog tags are like your pup’s personal calling card. Attached to their collar, they give anyone who finds your dog a way to contact you right away—no fancy tools or vet visits needed.

What to put on your dog’s tag:

• Their name

• Your cell phone number

• Optional: Your city or address

• Optional: A note like “I’m microchipped” or “I need meds”

Helpful tip: If your pup is microchipped, adding that info to the tag can encourage someone to take them to a shelter or vet to get scanned if they can't reach you.

Microchips: A Little Backup That Goes a Long Way

Microchips are tiny and go just under your dog’s skin (usually between the shoulder blades). If your dog is found without a collar or tag, a vet or shelter can scan the chip and pull up your contact info from a database.

Good to know:

• It’s not a GPS. A microchip can’t track your dog—it just stores an ID number tied to your info.

• You’ve gotta register it. A chip only works if your info is in the system and up to date.

• It lasts forever. Once it’s in, it’s good for life!

Pro tip: If you move or change phone numbers, don’t forget to update the chip registry.

Dog tags and microchips are a dream team. Tags get your dog home fast if someone finds them nearby. Microchips step in if the collar falls off or if your dog ends up at a shelter.

Life happens. Doors blow open, leashes slip, dogs do dog things. But a tag and microchip? They can make all the difference. A little prep today means peace of mind tomorrow—and a much happier reunion if your pup ever goes on an unexpected adventure!