Dog Microchipping: Everything You Need to Know
A microchip is a passive RFID transponder — about the size of a grain of rice — implanted under the skin. It contains a unique 15-digit ISO number that identifies your dog, linking them permanently to your contact details in a database. It doesn't track location; it identifies. When a lost dog is found, a scanner activates the chip, the number is read, and the database returns your contact details.
Is Microchipping Compulsory?
- UK: Compulsory for all dogs over 8 weeks old since 2016 in England, Wales, and Scotland. Penalty up to £500 for non-compliance.
- EU: Required for all dogs travelling between EU member states
- Australia, New Zealand, many US states: required by law
The Implantation Procedure
A veterinary nurse or vet injects the chip via a hollow needle, usually on the back of the neck, slightly left of centre. It takes seconds and causes minimal discomfort — comparable to a routine vaccination. Done from 8 weeks of age. Most puppies receive their chip before leaving the breeder.
Why Registration Matters More Than the Chip
The chip number is only useful if it's registered to your current contact details in a database. In the UK, databases include Petlog, Microchip Central, and others. If you move house, change your phone number, or rehome your dog — update the database immediately. A chip linked to old contact details is nearly useless.
EU Travel After Brexit (UK Dogs)
Since Brexit, UK dogs need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for each trip to the EU — not a pet passport (EU pet passports issued in the UK are no longer valid for entry). The AHC is issued by a vet, valid for 10 days for entry, and confirms chip, rabies vaccination, and tapeworm treatment (for some destinations).
EU Pet Passport (EU Residents)
Dogs travelling within the EU need the blue EU pet passport — issued by a vet and containing chip number, rabies vaccination records, and vet details. No chip = no passport.
Store your dog's microchip number in Purzi. If your dog goes missing, this is the first piece of information a shelter or vet will need — having it immediately, without digging through paperwork, saves critical time.