Knowledge base · Identity
Does a dog still need a collar tag if it has a tracker?
Yes. A tracker does not stand in for the tag.
Article 2 of the Control of Dogs Order 1992 says that every dog in a highway or a place of public resort shall wear a collar with the owner's name and address on the collar or on a plate or badge. There is a list of exceptions in that article, including some working dogs and dogs registered with the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association. Read the list before you rely on an exception.
GOV.UK's microchipping page says a dog must still wear a collar and tag with your name and address in a public place. The RSPCA recommends adding a phone number. The Order's article, as made, requires the name and address.
Tractive says its tracker can fall off if the collar comes off. An object that can fall off is not the legal inscription.
Sources
- The Control of Dogs Order 1992, article 2 — legislation.gov.uk, accessed 14 November 2026.
- Get your dog or cat microchipped — GOV.UK, accessed 14 November 2026.
- How to stop your pet from being stolen — RSPCA, accessed 14 November 2026.