A dog tag is tiny, but it has one huge job: getting your pup home if they ever slip out the door. The trouble is, there's only so much room on a tag. So what should you actually put on a dog tag, and what can you skip?
Here's our guide to what to engrave on a pet ID tag, in order of importance, plus a free printable to keep all your pet's emergency info in one place.
What to put on a dog tag: the essentials
1. Your phone number (the most important line)
If you only engrave one thing, make it your cell phone number. Whoever finds your dog will almost always try to call you first. Use the number you're most likely to answer, and include the area code.
2. A second phone number
If there's room, add a backup: a partner, a family member or a trusted neighbor. If your dog gets out while you're traveling, at work or without your phone, a second number gives the finder another way to reach someone fast.
3. Your pet's name
Most people put their pet's name on the front of the tag. It helps a finder call your dog over and calm them down. Some owners prefer to leave the name off, since a stranger calling a dog by name can make it easier for someone to walk off with them. There's no single right answer, so go with what feels right for your pet.
4. "I'm microchipped"
A microchip is permanent ID, but a finder can't see it. Saying "microchipped" on the tag tells them to take your pet to a vet or shelter for a quick scan. Our microchip charm clips onto the same ring as your main tag, so you don't have to give up space on it.
5. Medical needs or allergies
If your pet takes daily medication, has allergies or has a condition like diabetes or epilepsy, put it on the tag. Something short like "Needs meds" or "Allergic to chicken" tells the finder this is urgent. An allergy alert charm is an easy way to add it without crowding your tag.
Nice-to-haves (if there's room)
- Your city or street name. Helpful if your dog wanders a long way. Some owners skip the full street address for privacy.
- "Reward if found." It can encourage someone to keep your dog safe and call you quickly.
- "Deaf" or "Blind." Important if your dog won't respond to someone calling them.
- "I'm friendly!" or "Please call my mom." A friendly note can make a nervous finder more comfortable approaching your dog.
What to leave off a dog tag
- Too much text. Small letters crammed onto a tag are hard to read, especially on a scared, squirmy dog. Pick 2 to 4 short lines.
- Old phone numbers. A tag with a disconnected number is barely better than no tag at all. Update your tag whenever your number changes.
- Your full home address (optional). It's a personal choice. Many owners feel a phone number is enough.
Front and back: how to lay out your tag
Our custom engraved acrylic pet ID tags can be engraved on the front, the back or both. A layout that works for most pets:
- Front: your pet's name, big and easy to read.
- Back: your phone number, a backup number and one important note, like "Microchipped" or "Needs meds."
The largest side of our tags is about 1.5 inches, so short and sweet works best. They come in fun shapes (circle, star, heart, flower, cloud, cowboy hat and more) and colors to match any collar, and they work for cats too.
Don't forget the other tags
Many towns require a dog license tag, and your vet may give you a rabies tag after vaccination. Keep those on the collar alongside your ID tag. They help too, since a vet or shelter can trace them back to you.
Check your dog's tag once a year
Tags take a beating from rough play, water and scratching. Once a year, make sure the text is still easy to read, the phone numbers are current and the ring is secure. If anything has changed, it's time for a new tag.
Frequently asked questions
Should I put my dog's name on their tag?
Most owners do, because it helps a finder call your dog and calm them down. A few owners leave it off for theft concerns. Either way, your phone number matters most.
What should I put on a cat's ID tag?
The same essentials: your phone number, your cat's name and "Microchipped" if they are. Indoor cats benefit from an "Indoor cat" charm, so a finder knows they're lost, not out exploring.
How long does a custom pet tag take?
Each tag is engraved in our Long Island, New York studio. Personalized tags take up to 10 business days to make, then ship USPS within the U.S.
Free printable: Pet Emergency Info sheet + wallet cards
A tag holds the basics. For everything else, we made a free printable. It's a fridge sheet for your pet's microchip number, vet, allergies, medications and emergency contacts, plus "My pets are home alone!" wallet cards to keep in your wallet and car. Sign up for the Haven Print Co. newsletter and we'll send it straight to your inbox.
Ready to make your pup's tag? Design your custom pet ID tag →
With love (and belly rubs),
Lisa & Michelle, Haven Print Co.
