How to Label Dog Tags:

After the decision has been made to add a new pet to the family, it is time to head to the pet store for a few key supplies. On the very first day with his new family, the dog will need a leash, collar and dog tags for identification. Dog tags provide essential information so the pet can be returned safely to his owners if he is ever lost.

Types
Choose a dog tag that reflects your dog's size, personality and coordinates with the dog collar. Choose a tag that contrasts with the dog's fur color, so it can be easily seen. Select a size and pattern appropriate for the size of dog. Oversized tags will bother a small dog, and tiny tags can get lost in longer dog fur. Choose tags made of stainless steel or thick plastic for durability.

Features
Type several lines of text on a dog tag. Start on the first line with the pet's name. Put the street address on the second line of the tag, and finish with a cell phone number if possible. For privacy, some pet owners choose not to include a street address. Then, include two phone numbers where the pet owner can be reached. Choose among a home phone, cell phone, work phone or neighbor's phone number.

Effects
Identification on a dog is a safety feature. If the dog runs away, or gets lost, he can easily be identified and returned to his owner if he is wearing dog tags. This is the simplest, fastest method, for a dog to be identified. Microchipping is also a great way to identify a dog. However, it takes longer to have the chip read by a local vet or shelter, than for a person to read a tag and make a phone call.

Locations
Go to a pet store that offers a dog tag engraving machine. Check for tag engraving machines in stores that sell travel luggage. Engraved dog tags are also available by mail order in the back of pet magazines, or online from pet retailers.

Problems
Dog tags can fall off. When multiple dogs are housed together, playtime can cause the tags to loosen from a collar and get lost. Check the dog's collar periodically to make sure the dog tags are there, and legible. As they wear, the writing can be difficult to read.

Want help choosing the perfect dog collar for the new dog tags?
Check out my companion article A Review of Dog Collar Varieties.