Irish regulations specify the owner’s name and address on the collar or attached tag.
Keep it short, readable and useful.
A dog tag works best when a stranger can read it quickly and contact you without confusion. Two strong lines often do more than a crowded tag full of tiny text.
Updated 28 July 2026Add the number most likely to be answered so a finder can contact you quickly.
Use the back when you need more room for clear identification and contact details.
Suggested dog-tag layout
Irish regulations specify the owner’s name and address. A phone number is a useful extra for a quick reunion. The exact layout depends on the address and the space available, so keep each line short and check the live fit warning.
- Front line 1: owner name or surname
- Front line 2: concise address detail
- Back line 1: main phone number
- Back line 2: another useful address or contact detail, if needed
Avoid overcrowding
If text has to become tiny to fit, it stops doing its job. Shorter text is usually safer, clearer and nicer-looking.
Which phone number should go on the tag?
Use the number most likely to be answered by a real person. A phone number is useful contact information, but it does not replace the owner name and address specified by Irish regulations.
- Use spaces so the number is easier to read.
- Avoid old landline numbers that are rarely answered.
- Update the tag quickly if the main phone number changes.
What not to put on the front
The front of the tag should be calm and useful. Long addresses, multiple messages and decorative text can all make the important number harder to read.
- Do not use a full paragraph of text.
- Do not rely on a tiny font just to fit more words.
- Do not keep using a tag once the engraving becomes hard to read.
Good to know before you order.
Is my dog’s name enough on its own?
No. Irish regulations specify the owner’s name and address. A pet name can be added when there is enough room, but it should not push the required identification or useful phone number into unreadably small text.
Is two lines enough?
For most everyday tags, two clear front lines are better than four cramped lines. Use the optional reverse side when you need extra contact details.