Dogs

You are here > Home > Council A-Z > Dogs > Microchipping

Microchipping

Dog Overview and Registration | Dog Attacks | Dog Obedience | Dog Pound | Walking Your Dog | Dog Control Laws | Dog Registration Fees

Microchipping dogs with a unique number provides a secure and reliable way of identifying each dog for life.

What dogs need to be microchipped?

• All dogs registered for the first time on or after 1 July 2006, except for working dogs, will be required to be microchipped. Working dogs are dogs kept solely for the purpose of herding or driving stock.
• All dogs that are classified as dangerous or menacing, including dogs classified since 1 December 2003.
• Any dogs that are impounded more than once from 1 July 2006.  

How do I get my dog microchipped?

Dogs can be microchipped at vets. Microchips supplied by vets must meet NZISO standards (vets are aware of this).

What’s the microchip like?

The microchip, which contains a unique number, is about the size of a grain of rice and will be injected into the scruff of your dog’s neck.

When do I get my dog microchipped?

Puppies or dogs that are being registered for the first time need to be microchipped within two months of registration. A good time to do this is along with your dog’s vaccinations. Menacing or dangerous dogs need to be microchipped within two months of being classified.

How do I show my dog has been microchipped?

Vets provide certificates for dog owners to confirm their dog has been microchipped.

Our Animal Control officers will also carry microchip scanners to enable them to read microchips. The officer will also be able to verify and issue a confirmation certificate if required.

What does it cost to get my dog microchipped?

Prices are set by vets, but if you are taking your dog to a vet for a routine appointment, such as inoculations, microchipping is likely to cost approximately $25 - $35. A stand alone microchip procedure is more likely to cost more.

Related links

• Department of Internal Affairs website