Microchipping of dogs is obligatory by law in many countries across Europe and the world, but whether it is obligatory or not where you live, it’s still a really good idea to get it done. Microchipping is straightforward to do, costs a minimal amount and, most importantly, is the surest way to get your pet back if they become separated from you.
What is microchipping?
Microchipping is the insertion of a small microchip under the skin of your pet. This is about the size of a large grain of rice and sits in the scruff between the shoulder blades. The microchip comes in a pre-loaded syringe and only takes a few seconds to insert. The needle is slightly larger than most injections, but most dogs barely notice it being inserted, especially if they have some tasty treats to eat during the procedure.
Each microchip has a number that is unique to your pet. This number and all your and your pet’s details are registered on a database. If your dog gets separated from you, when they are found, the dog warden or vet will scan your dog and then get your contact details from the database, and you will be reunited as soon as possible. It’s essential that you keep your contact details up to date so that you can ensure you will be contacted as soon as your dog is found. It’s sadly all too common for dogs to end up being rehomed, or worse, euthanised, because their owner can’t be traced due to outdated information. Please don’t let that be you!
When should I get my dog microchipped?
Most countries where microchipping of dogs is compulsory will have an age limit by which they must be microchipped, so ask your vet what the law says where you live. If it’s optional, you should get it done as soon as you can before your dog starts going out for walks. Most vets will do the microchipping with the first or second puppy vaccines. Your puppy may already be chipped when you take them home, so make sure you change the contact details from the breeder’s to yours. This is also true if you are taking a dog from an adoption centre.
How much does microchipping cost?
This will vary from place to place, but it is generally a low, one-off cost. Prices in the UK range from around £20-30 and €40-70 in the EU. There may be a small fee to pay when you update your details, but that will depend on the database. Be sure, if you think you might be taking your dog on holiday abroad with you, that as part of your travel checklist, you have a chip that is compatible with international scanners and border controls. The cost of microchipping may be included in your puppy cost or adoption fee.
Is microchipping dogs safe?
The short answer is yes! The microchips are encased in inert surgical-grade glass, so the body should not react to it.
Rarely, a chip may stop working or the chip might migrate and come out of the body. For this reason, it’s a good idea to occasionally get your vet to check that the chip is still working. This will usually be done at their annual check up, but most clinics are happy to run a scanner over your dog free of charge if you want to pop in and make sure all is OK in between visits.
What are the benefits of microchipping my dog?
The major benefits of microchipping dogs are;
- It may well be a legal requirement where you live.
- It is safe, quick to do and inexpensive.
- Collars and tags can be taken off or lost, whereas microchipping is by far the most reliable lifelong way to ensure that you are reunited with your dog should they be lost or stolen.
Losing our dogs is one of the biggest fears for pet parents, and hopefully that will never happen to you. But if it does, if your dog is microchipped, as soon as they are found, you can be sure that you will quickly be back together again.
Dog microchipping FAQs
Is microchipping safe?
Yes. Microchips are small, sterile devices that sit under skin and are only activated when a microchip scanner is passed over them.
Will it hurt my dog?
Dogs, like humans, have different pain thresholds, but in general, inserting a microchip is a fast and virtually painless procedure. Most dogs don’t notice it being done.
What happens if I forget to update my contact details?
Your dog may not be reunited with you and may be rehomed or worse, euthanised. Make sure that if your phone number, email address or home address changes, you let the database know straight away.
Is microchipping dogs expensive?
No. It generally costs from around £20-30 in the UK and €40-70 in the EU.
Reviewed by Dr. Hein Meyer, DVM, PhD, Dipl-ECVIM-CA and Dr. Emma Milne BVSc FRCVS.
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