From 6 April 2016 all dogs will be required to have a microchip.
This is in addition to the tag.
Microchip information must be kept up to date on an approved National database.
After 6 April 2016, owners of dogs found by the police or local authorities without microchips will be given a short period to comply with the microchipping law. If they do not comply, they will face a fine of up to £500.
