If your dog went missing today, would the details on their microchip still be correct?
It sounds like a simple question, but many owners are surprised to discover their dog’s microchip is linked to an old address, an old phone number, or even a previous owner.
As a dog walker in Finchley, I regularly meet owners who assume a microchip is a one-time job. In reality, a microchip is only useful if the information linked to it is accurate.
A microchip can help reunite a lost dog with their family. But if the details are out of date, that process becomes much harder.
This guide explains why microchips matter, what the law says, how to check your details, and why your dog should still wear a collar and tag.
Quick Answer
Every dog in England must be microchipped and registered with up-to-date owner details.
A microchip is a permanent form of identification, but it only works if your contact information is correct.
If you move house, change your phone number, or adopt a rescue dog, you should update your details as soon as possible.
INTERNAL LINK: Dog Safety Hub coming soon
What Is A Dog Microchip?
A microchip is a tiny electronic chip, about the size of a grain of rice, implanted under your dog’s skin.
The chip contains a unique identification number.
When scanned by a vet, dog warden, rescue centre, or animal welfare organisation, that number links to a database containing your contact details.
The chip itself does not contain GPS tracking.
One of the biggest myths I hear is that microchips allow you to track your dog in real time.
They do not.
A microchip only works when someone finds your dog and scans the chip.
Is Microchipping A Legal Requirement?
Yes.
Under current UK legislation, dogs in England must be microchipped and registered with the keeper’s details.
The registered information must be kept up to date.
Failure to comply could result in enforcement action and fines.
Microchipping is now considered one of the most important parts of responsible dog ownership.
Resource: Government guidance on dog microchipping
Why Microchips Matter
Dogs can go missing for many reasons.
Some common examples include:
- gates left open
- damaged fencing
- slipping a lead
- road traffic collisions
- fireworks
- storms
- unfamiliar environments during holidays
- rescue dogs becoming frightened
Even the calmest dog can panic if something unexpected happens.
A microchip gives your dog the best chance of being reunited with you.
Why A Collar And Tag Still Matter
Many owners assume a microchip replaces a collar and tag.
It doesn’t.
In the UK, dogs in public places should still wear a collar with identification attached.
A tag allows someone to contact you immediately without needing a chip scanner.
In many cases, a neighbour can simply ring the number on the tag and reunite you within minutes.
I always recommend using both.
Think of a dog tag as the first line of defence and the microchip as the backup.
Starting point: Welcome Pack
The Most Common Reason Microchips Fail
The biggest problem is not the microchip itself.
It’s outdated information.
Over the years people:
- move house
- change mobile numbers
- switch email addresses
- separate from partners
- adopt rescue dogs
- inherit pets from relatives
Yet many never update their dog’s records.
When a dog is scanned, the registered phone number may no longer work.
The address may belong to somebody else.
The rescue centre may have no way to contact the current owner.
When Should You Update Your Dog’s Microchip Details?
You should update your records whenever any important information changes.
You Move House
This is one of the most common reasons details become inaccurate.
If your dog goes missing and the database still shows an old address, it can create unnecessary delays.
You Change Your Phone Number
Many people change mobile providers and forget about their dog’s records.
Your phone number is often the quickest way for somebody to contact you.
Your Dog Changes Ownership
Whether through adoption, rescue, or rehoming, the database should reflect the current keeper.
Your Emergency Contact Changes
Some databases allow secondary contacts.
Keeping these updated can be extremely helpful.
How To Check Your Dog’s Microchip Details
If you are unsure which database your dog is registered with:
- check your registration paperwork
- contact your vet
- contact the rescue organisation
- ask the microchip company directly
Many databases now allow owners to log in online and check their information.
If you cannot remember your registration details, your vet may be able to help identify the chip provider.
How Often Should You Check Your Details?
I recommend checking once a year.
A good habit is to do it when:
- renewing pet insurance
- booking vaccinations
- updating your dog licence abroad
- moving house
- changing phone providers
It only takes a few minutes.
What Happens If Your Dog Goes Missing?
If your dog goes missing:
Contact Local Vets
Many lost dogs are handed into veterinary practices.
Contact Local Rescue Centres
Rescues often receive found dogs before owners realise they are missing.
Notify The Microchip Database
Many databases can flag your dog as missing.
Contact Your Local Council Dog Warden
Dog wardens regularly deal with found dogs.
Use Local Community Groups
Community Facebook groups can be surprisingly effective.
Start Searching Immediately
The sooner you act, the better the chances of a quick reunion.
Read my guide on how to fid a lost dog
Common Microchip Myths
My Dog Has A Microchip, So They Don’t Need A Tag
False.
Both should be used together.
A Microchip Tracks My Dog’s Location
False.
Microchips do not provide GPS tracking.
My dog was chipped years ago, so I’m covered
Not necessarily.
Your details may have changed.
Rescue Dogs Don’t Need New Registration
False.
The database should always show the current keeper.
A Quick Microchip Checklist
Take five minutes today and check:
✓ That your address correct?
✓ Cobtact details incl your mobile number is correct?
✓ Is your email address correct?
✓ Check your emergency contact is current?
✓ Does your dog wear a tag when out?
✓ Do you know which database your dog is registered with?
If you answered no to any of these, it is worth updating them today.
Final Thoughts
Most dog owners hope they will never need their dog’s microchip.
The reality is that it is one of those things you only appreciate when something goes wrong.
A few minutes spent checking your details today could save days of worry if your dog ever goes missing.
As someone who spends every day working with dogs around Finchley, East Finchley, Muswell Hill and the surrounding areas, I always encourage owners to treat microchip details like any other important document.
Keep them accurate.
Keep them updated.
And don’t forget that a simple collar and tag can still be one of the quickest ways to get a lost dog home.
Useful Guides
Guides Hub
Solo Dog Walks
Rescue Dog Support
Summer Dog Safety
House Sitting
Welcome Pack
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Dogs must be microchipped and registered with up-to-date keeper information.
Many microchip databases allow owners to update details online through their account portal.
No. A microchip only stores an identification number, which must be scanned.
Yes. A collar and tag remain one of the quickest ways for someone to contact you.
If yiu are away then it is a good idea to get your house sitter to put their own tags on the dog a
At least once a year and whenever your contact details change.
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