Yes, the law “Control of Dogs Order 1992” States you must have a collar on your dog in public spaces with the name and address of the owner. It’s a legal requirement, and if caught, it’s an offence, and you will be guilty of the Animal Health Act 1981, and you could be fined.
Offence Outcome
If caught, you could get a fine, or the dog can be deemed a stray dog and taken away under section 3 of the Dogs Act 1906 or section 149 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.
Dogs Do Not Need To Wear A Collar in Public If:
- Sporting dog
- Professional vermin catchers
- Sheepdog
- Pack of hounds
- Official duties
- Emergency rescue work
- A registered guide dog
Yes, by law, your dog needs to have a microchip and a collar with a tag showing the name and address of the owner. If your dog is not microchipped, you can be fined.
Back Garden Or Around The House
Your dog doesn’t need to wear a collar around the house or in your garden. However, if your dog is sometimes known for escaping, it’s best for your dog’s safety to keep the collar on, just in case they get out. A phone number on a tag will help you reunite quicker with your dog. Relying solely on a microchip takes a little longer as someone needs to take them to the vet, or the local dog warden needs to collect them to be able to scan the chip for the details. This process can be slow and takes even longer, especially over weekends. It will save you a lot of worrying as there is nothing worse than losing your beloved dog.
Resource: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1992/901/contents/made
