Why Microchip Your Dog, and How Do You Keep It Working?

By Dr Duncan Houston

A collar can come off. A phone number can change. A microchip adds a valuable identification backup, but it only helps someone contact you when the registration behind it is correct.

Quick Answer

A microchip is a small implanted device that gives a scanner a unique identification number. It does not track your dog or transmit a location. Combine it with a visible ID tag, current registry details and secure handling, and ask your vet to check that it scans during routine visits.

What happens when a dog is scanned?

A clinic, shelter or authorised finder scans the dog, reads the number and uses an appropriate registry or lookup service to identify where it is registered. The registry links that number to contact information. An implanted chip without a usable registration can leave the finder with a number but no practical way to reach you.

Keep a copy of the number and registration confirmation with your dog's records. A council licence, breeder paperwork and a microchip database entry may be separate records. Updating one does not necessarily update the others.

Placement and follow-up

A trained professional places the device beneath the skin using a needle. Most dogs do not need general anaesthesia solely for this, although the injection can briefly hurt. Ask the clinic to scan before implantation, confirm the new chip afterwards and explain any aftercare.

Persistent swelling, discharge or pain at the site warrants a veterinary check. Serious complications are uncommon, but no implant is completely risk-free. Do not attempt insertion, removal or repositioning at home.

Where identification can fail

If your dog goes missing

1. Contact the registry and flag your dog as missing where that service is available.
2. Check your telephone number and backup contact immediately.
3. Notify local shelters, veterinary clinics and the relevant local authority. Supply a recent photograph and distinguishing details.
4. Search safely and check found-dog notices. A microchip cannot tell you where to search.
5. If the dog returns, arrange care for any injury and update the missing status.

Common mistakes

• Assuming implantation automatically completed every registration step.
• Relying on the chip instead of secure gates, leads and an ID tag.
• Believing a chip proves every legal ownership dispute by itself.
• Ignoring registry emails because the dog has never escaped.

A simple prevention routine

Check registry details after every move or telephone change and review them during your annual care planning. Keep a clear current photograph. Before using a sitter, agree on door security, lead handling and who will respond if the dog escapes.

Frequently asked questions

Does a microchip need charging?

No. Standard identification microchips use no battery. They respond when a compatible scanner passes close enough.

Can a microchip replace a GPS tracker?

No. They serve different purposes: a chip identifies a found dog, while a tracker may help locate a dog when its particular system is operating.

Must I pay an annual fee?

Fees and optional services vary. Ask the registry what is required to keep basic contact details registered, rather than assuming every advertised subscription is compulsory.

Is microchipping legally required?

Requirements vary by location. Check your local animal authority for current age, registration and transfer rules.

The most useful chip is a readable chip linked to someone who can answer the phone. Checking that link takes little effort and can matter enormously.

Further reading

• AVMA: microchipping FAQs
• AVMA: microchipping your pet

For more practical guidance on caring for your dog, explore ASK A VET™. If your dog needs urgent treatment, contact your veterinary clinic directly.