What You Need to Know About Microchipping Your Dog



A Small Chip, A Big Safety Net

As pet parents, keeping our furry companions safe is always a top priority. We ensure they have nutritious meals, regular vet checkups, and plenty of love. But what happens if your dog ever gets lost? Despite best efforts, dogs can slip out of collars, dash through open gates, or simply wander too far from home. That’s where dog microchips step in as a silent hero.

Microchipping is a small act with a massive impact—a reliable way to permanently identify your dog and find them if they go missing. In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about microchipping your dog—from what it is, why it matters, when, and how to care for your pup post-microchipping.

What is Microchipping?

Microchipping is a simple, safe, and quick procedure in which a small electronic chip—about the size of a grain of rice—is inserted beneath your dog’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. This chip contains a unique identification number that is linked to your contact details in a pet registry database.

The chip itself is passive, meaning it doesn’t require a battery or emit signals on its own. Instead, when a vet or shelter worker scans the chip using a special handheld reader, the ID number is displayed. This number can then be used to look up the registered pet parent’s information, helping lost pets find their way back home. Dog microchips serve as a reliable link between pets and their families in such situations.

The process is quick and relatively painless—similar to a routine vaccination—and is generally done during a vet visit.

Why is Microchipping Important?

Imagine the heartbreak of losing your dog and not knowing whether they’ll ever find their way back to you. A microchip significantly increases the chances of a reunion. According to studies, microchipped dogs are more than twice as likely to be returned to their parents compared to those without chips.

Microchipping your dog offers a permanent form of identification, unlike collars or tags that can fall off or be removed. It acts as a safeguard in various scenarios—whether your pet is stolen, lost during travel, or escapes during a storm or fireworks.

Another benefit is legal proof of ownership. In disputes or emergencies, a registered microchip number linked to your name can be a valuable asset.

Moreover, in countries like India, where pet recovery services are still growing, microchipping can give you peace of mind and a clear path for action if your dog goes missing.

When Should You Microchip Your Dog?

The good news is that microchipping can be done at almost any stage of your dog’s life, though most vets recommend doing it early.

Ideally, puppies should be microchipped between 6 to 8 weeks of age. This timing ensures they are old enough to safely undergo the procedure and young enough for the chip to serve them throughout their life. However, if your dog hasn’t been microchipped as a puppy, it’s never too late. Adult dogs, rescue dogs, and even senior dogs can benefit from being chipped.

Another convenient time to microchip is during spaying or neutering, as your dog will already be under anaesthesia. Some pet parents also choose to do it during their dog’s first comprehensive checkup, combining it with vaccinations or deworming to minimise vet visits.

If you're adopting from a shelter, check whether microchipping is included as part of the adoption process. Many reputable shelters already microchip their dogs before rehoming.

3 Best Practices After Microchipping Your Dog

Getting your dog microchipped is only the first step. To ensure the chip helps in case your dog gets lost, there are a few important practices to follow:

1. Register the Chip Immediately

After the chip is inserted, your vet will provide a microchip number. It's vital to register this number with a recognised pet database along with your accurate contact information—name, address, phone number, and an alternate contact if possible. Without registration, the chip is practically useless.

In India, databases like Petofy and Anvis can be used for registering after microchipping your dog. Some microchip manufacturers also provide their platforms. Ensure that your vet explains the registration process or assists you with it during the visit.

2. Keep Your Details Up to Date

Moving to a new home? Changed your phone number? Don’t forget to update your microchip registry details. Many pet parents forget this step, reducing the effectiveness of the chip. Set a reminder to check your registration once a year or whenever you change your contact details.

3. Combine the Chip with Visible ID

While microchipping is excellent for permanent identification, combining it with a visible ID tag on your dog’s collar is the best strategy. A tag offers immediate recognition to someone who finds your dog, while the chip ensures deeper backup verification at shelters or vet clinics.

A Dogsee pro tip? Add a small line on your dog’s tag that says “I’m microchipped.” This alerts good samaritans and rescue teams to scan your dog and find you faster.

Conclusion: Tiny Chip, Big Impact

At Dogsee, we believe that responsible pet parenting includes taking proactive steps for your dog’s safety, and microchipping is a small investment that brings lifelong security. It’s fast, safe, and can make the difference between being reunited with your dog in hours versus never finding them again.

While we hope you’ll never have to rely on dog microchips, having that extra layer of protection provides peace of mind in today’s unpredictable world. Whether you’re a new pet parent or a seasoned dog lover, microchipping is one decision you’ll never regret.

So go ahead—ask your vet about microchipping at your next visit, and ensure your furry companion is always just a scan away from home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. What is a dog microchip, and how does it work?

Answer: A dog microchip is a small electronic chip implanted under your dog’s skin. When scanned, it reveals a unique ID number linked to your contact details in a pet recovery database.

2. Is microchipping painful for my dog?

Answer: No, the procedure is quick and similar to a routine vaccination. Most dogs barely react, and it typically doesn’t require anaesthesia.

3. At what age should I get my dog microchipped?

Answer: Most vets recommend microchipping as early as 6–8 weeks old, but it can be done at any age.

4. How much does microchipping cost in India?

Answer: The cost of microchipping in India usually ranges from ₹500 to ₹1,500, depending on the vet and location.

5. Can a microchip track my dog’s location?