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6 best dog tags of 2023, approved by vets

6 best dog tags of 2023, approved by vets

Whether it’s purely utilitarian or your pup is a fashionista, these best dog tags of the year have something to suit you and your dog’s style.

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Summary

From different-shaped tags to high-tech gadgets that keep you connected no matter where your lost pet has roamed off to, the best dog ID tags preserve your peace of mind when your pup or fluffy feline takes advantage of an open door. Keep reading to find the best custom dog tags for your pet.

#1 Best dog tags with QR code: FidoTabby Alert

#2 Best customizable dog tag: Providence Engraving Pet ID Tags

#3 Best silicone dog tag: QALO

#4 Best secure dog tag: LuckyPet

#5 Best luxury dog tag: Murphy and Max

#6 Best Bluetooth dog tag: Pawscout Pet Tag

Honorable mention: Red Dingo Personalized Dog Tag

When creating this list of best dog tags, we looked at a lot of IDs. While the Red Dingo dog tag didn’t make the cut for Dr. Irish or us, it still has attributes we like. Here are a few details about this personalized dog tag. It offers:

  • Multiple sizes. From less than an inch to an inch and a half, the personalized dog tag is as big or as small as a pet needs.
  • Multiple colors. Because of this, the tag can stand out against different coat colors and patterns.
  • Free shipping. Red Dingo offers free shipping, which reduces unexpected costs at checkout.

Here are the things that made Dr. Irish hesitate and observations we’ve gotten from reading the reviews.

  • Fading. Dr. Irish noted reviewers complained that the engraving on the back faded quickly. While this may be due to a dog’s activity level, it’s still not something pet owners want after less than a year.
  • Weight. Another reviewer commented that it was heavy, even for their large-breed dog. Because of that, they aren’t using it.

What to look for in a dog tag

Selecting the best tag for your dog or cat depends on your pet. Some pets might need something that slides on the collar, while others need a GPS or Bluetooth tracker because of their skills at escaping the home. Regardless of what your pet needs to get or stay home safely, here’s a list of features to look for when selecting the best dog tag for your pup.

Personalization

When considering a pet tag, evaluate how much information you can add to it and how it is displayed. For most pet tags, your pet’s name is a given — the exception might be Bluetooth and GPS trackers, which may need an additional tag. Others might include an address or phone number.

👉 For your safety and security, it’s best to avoid adding your home address to your pet’s ID tag.

Closeup of a cat in the grass.
While a pretty cat tag, this tag can easily get snag, stain, or fade due to wear.

Material

While it’s a given that your dog or cat’s tag will have to be replaced occasionally, it isn’t likely a monthly or even yearly purchase. If a material isn’t durable enough to withstand wear and tear, it’s not worth customizing for your pet. Look for a material that doesn’t stain, rip, or fade quickly when shopping for the perfect tag for your pet.

Size

It’s also important to consider the size of your pet and the tag they need. This is most relevant to smaller pets, like cats or small-breed dogs. If a tag is oversized or heavy, it can cause pain and discomfort to your pet. It can also be too cumbersome for them to maneuver around.

Shop our best small dog and cat collars to find the perfect fitting collar for your (small) furry friend.

Other features

Some tags are for specific types of pets — or, rather, particular personalities. Bluetooth tags let you find pets that go missing or tend to hide in the house or yard. GPS tags — which use a mobile signal — allow you to track a cat around the neighborhood to see how many other families they’ve claimed. Other popular choices include slide-ons or even collars that feature your contact information.

👉 Bluetooth and GPS trackers might not alert you when a pet is missing, or they may require a paid subscription. FidoTabby Alert includes your pet’s name, a QR code, and pet ID number. When someone finds your pet, those pieces of information connect your pet to a network of Pet Finders and vice versa.  

Essentially, it’s important to consider your pet’s lifestyle and tendencies when shopping for a tag to decide what features are a must and what you (and your pet!) can live without.

Why trust betterpet?

The writers, editors, and staff of betterpet are pet parents, and we know the value of accurate, trustworthy information. Because of this, the content we create is reviewed and approved by our vets, guaranteeing that what you read comes from expert knowledge.

Frequently asked questions

What kind of dog tags are best?

While this is largely subjective and depends on your dog’s needs, surgical stainless steel is the best material for a dog tag. Corrosive-resistant and hypoallergenic, tags made of this type of stainless steel will last longer.

What dog name tags won’t fall off?

Certain dog tags are designed to be mounted onto a dog’s collar. While only one-sided, these dog tags are permanently affixed to the collar, meaning that as long as your dog has the collar on, they will have their tag.

How do you keep a dog’s name tag and license from falling off?

You can use an S hook and pliers to attach your dog’s tag and rabies license to your dog’s collar.

I don’t want my phone number or address on there. How can I be contacted if my dog is lost?

You can use a service like FidoTabby alert. The only information on the collar is your pet’s name, ID number, and QR code, allowing whoever finds your pet to reach out to FidoTabby Alert. The person who found your pet will provide their contact information, which is then sent to you. This means that your personal information isn’t on the collar. This prevents unwanted visitors to your home.

Dog icon with leashCat chasing yarn ball - illustrated