Does My Dog Need to Wear a Collar? UK Law & Safety Guide

Yes. In the UK, your dog does need to wear a collar.

It’s not just a good idea. It’s a legal requirement. Under the Control of Dogs Order 1992, every dog in a public place must wear a collar with an ID tag that shows the owner’s name and address.

So whether you’re heading to the park, popping to the vet, or just stepping outside your front gate, your dog needs to be wearing a collar.

Let’s break down exactly what’s required and how to keep your dog safe, legal, and stylish at the same time.

What the law says about dog collars in the UK

The Control of Dogs Order 1992 makes it very clear. If your dog is in a public space, they must wear a collar with an identification tag. The tag must include:

• Your surname
• Your house name or number
• Your postcode

This is the bare legal minimum. Not following it could result in a £2,000 fine. Your dog may even be seized and treated as a stray.

Although not legally required, we recommend adding a mobile phone number to help people contact you quickly. If your dog has any medical conditions, include this on the tag too, along with your vet’s number if possible. These extra details could make all the difference in an emergency.

Want to know exactly what you’re legally required to include on a tag? Read our full guide to the UK dog ID tag law.

But my dog is microchipped. Do they still need a collar?

Yes. Even though it’s also a legal requirement for all dogs to be microchipped by eight weeks of age, that does not replace the need for a collar and tag.

A microchip needs a scanner and a database. An ID tag can be read in seconds by anyone who finds your dog.

Your dog’s collar and tag are the fastest, simplest way to make sure they get home safely. No waiting. No vet trip. No chance they’ll be taken to kennels or treated as a stray.

What should you put on your dog’s collar tag?

By law, just your surname, house number or name, and postcode. But we recommend going a little further for safety.

You might want to add:

• Your mobile number
• A second contact number
• The word “CHIPPED”

If your dog is found, someone can call you right away. Avoid including your dog’s name. If someone knows it, it makes it easier to claim your dog as their own. With dog theft on the rise, leaving off their name is a small but smart precaution.

Need more detail? We cover it all in our dog tag law guide, including what to do if your dog has a medical condition.

What kind of collar should your dog wear?

Comfort is key. The collar should be soft and lightweight, secure but not tight, and durable enough for everyday wear.

Use the two-finger rule. You should be able to slide two fingers between your dog’s neck and the collar.

Our neoprene dog collars are made with breathable padding and come in a range of gorgeous prints to match your harness or lead. Soft enough for all-day wear. Strong enough for daily adventures.

Can I walk my dog on a collar?

Technically, yes. But should you?

If your dog pulls, has a sensitive neck, or is a breed prone to health issues like Cavaliers with Syringomyelia (SM) or flat-faced dogs with BOAS, it’s best to attach the lead to a harness, not the collar.

That’s where our neoprene harnesses come in. Our adjustable Forest Babies harness even has both front and back D-rings. Ideal for dual lead control if your pup pulls or needs extra guidance.

What about puppies?

Yes, puppies need collars too. Especially once they start going outdoors. But comfort is everything when it comes to those tiny, growing necks.

Our neoprene collars are ideal for puppies. They’re padded, lightweight, and gentle on delicate skin. The quick-release buckle makes them easy to put on and take off. Perfect for wriggly little explorers.

Should my dog wear a collar at home?

Not really, no. And definitely not overnight.

At home, it’s safest to take the collar off, especially when your dog is unsupervised. Collars can get caught on crates, furniture, or during play. That can lead to choking or injury.

And let’s be honest. Taking off your collar after a long day? It’s the dog version of taking off your bra when you get home. Ladies, you know the feeling.

Let your pup breathe easy, collar-free while they relax.

What about in the car?

Never attach a dog seatbelt to a collar. It’s an accident waiting to happen, even without a crash.

Always clip seatbelts to a harness, not your dog’s neck. Even if you usually use a collar and lead for walks, a harness is a must for car journeys. It’s the safest option.

Why collars matter and how to choose the right one

A dog collar isn’t just about looks. It’s about legal compliance and safety. But at The Luna Collection, we believe it can also be beautiful.

We design collars that are:

• Legal and compliant
• Comfortable enough for everyday wear
• Easy to clean
• Available in prints that match our harnesses, leads, and accessories

Whether you prefer soft neutrals or bold prints, you’ll find the perfect fit.

Coming soon: our custom ID tags

We’re also bringing back our bestselling handmade ID tags. Fully customisable with:

• Over 100 dog breed illustrations
• Watercolour or cartoon styles
• Matching background prints from our collections
• Personalised contact details on both sides

You’ll be able to mix and match your tag to your pup’s style and ensure they’re fully covered under UK dog law. And looking fabulous while doing it.

Watch this space.

Want to cheer up your dog’s collar and make their outfit complete? Match it with a bandana, sailor bow or bow tie from our collection. Whether you’re after playful prints or coordinated sets, we’ve got the perfect finishing touch for every stylish pup.

So, does your dog need to wear a collar?

Yes. And not just because it’s the law.

It’s the fastest way to get your dog home if they’re ever lost. It’s a small detail that can make a huge difference. And with the right fit, the right tag, and a little Luna flair, your dog will be safe, stylish, and 100% legal.

Explore our collars today. And get ready to meet our new ID tag collection very soon.

Dog Collar FAQs

Does my dog legally have to wear a collar in the UK?

Yes. In the UK, your dog must wear a collar with an ID tag when in public. The Control of Dogs Order 1992 makes this a legal requirement, and failure to comply could result in a fine of up to £2,000.

Can my dog wear a harness instead of a collar?

No. Even if your dog walks on a harness, they still legally need to wear a collar with an ID tag while outside. A harness is great for control and comfort, but it doesn’t replace the legal requirement for identification.

Should my dog wear a collar all the time?

No. It’s best to remove your dog’s collar when they’re at home, especially overnight. This prevents it from getting caught on furniture or crates and keeps your dog comfortable and safe while relaxing.

What is the two-finger rule for dog collars?

The two-finger rule is a simple way to check fit. You should be able to slide two fingers between your dog’s collar and their neck. It should be snug but not tight. If you can fit more than two fingers, it’s too loose. Less than two, and it’s too tight.

Can I get fined if my dog isn’t wearing a collar or ID tag?

Yes. If your dog is in public without a collar and ID tag, you could face a fine of up to £2,000. Your dog could also be treated as a stray and taken to kennels.

What if my dog has medical needs?

We recommend including medical info on their ID tag. You can also add a second tag for health alerts like “On Medication” or “Epileptic,” and include your vet’s phone number. These little details could save your dog’s life in an emergency.

Are your collars suitable for puppies?

Yes. Our neoprene collars are soft, lightweight, and feature a quick-release buckle, making them ideal for little necks and wriggly pups.

When will your ID tags be available?

Very soon. Our handmade, custom-designed ID tags are returning with over 100 dog breed illustrations, two styles (watercolour and cartoon), and fully personalisable info. Watch this space.