When you buy or adopt a dog in Ohio, you usually need to register it with a license. This license, or pet tag, identifies the pet and makes it easier for the state to return it to you if it ever gets lost. Typically, you need to register a dog after it’s three months old, and there are plenty of different license options available. In fact, there are even unique registrations for service dogs and other animals.
That said, the registration process can be tricky if you don’t know where to start. Fortunately, we have your back in this guide and cover how to register a dog in Ohio.
Do You Need to Register Your Dog in Ohio?
Yes, you need to register your dog in Ohio. There are laws in place in Ohio that require you to have a license for your dog if they’re older than three months. This is because the licensing helps the state identify the dog if it ever gets lost, and it also reduces the number of dogs in shelters because it’s easier to bring them home. Once you register your dog, you’ll receive a pet tag, and you usually have to renew their license unless you opt for a permanent version.
How to Register a Dog in Ohio
There are a few ways to register a dog in Ohio. One of the best ways to do so is online, but there are also in-person locations you can visit to register your dog. Learn more about your options below.
How to Register a Dog in Ohio Online
If you want to register a dog in Ohio online, many county websites are available. You’ll need to enter the necessary information, pay the necessary fees, and then wait for your pet tag to arrive in the mail.
While the online route is the fastest, there’s a lot of information you need to have available. Make sure you have the following information handy:
- Name, breed, sex, and age of the dog.
- Your name and address.
- Proof of vaccinations.
Without this information, you’ll be unable to register your dog in Ohio.
How to Register a Dog in Ohio in Person
If you’re someone who likes to go to a physical location for this type of thing, we can’t blame you. The good news is that you can visit several locations that will help you register your dog in person. Some examples include Ace Hardware in Cincinnati, Animal Friends Humane Society, the Butler County Auditor, and even Al-Joe’s Pet and Garden Center.
You’ll want to look into each place a little further before you go to see if you’ll need an appointment. Once you arrive, they can help you with the process. The benefit of going in person is that you can bring your dog, and they can help you figure out breed information, age, and much more.
How Much Does It Cost to Register a Dog in Ohio?
The cost to register a dog in Ohio varies based on the license that you want. While it only costs $14 to license them for one year, a three-year license is $42. You can also get a puppy license for $7 or a permanent dog license for $140. While it may seem like an inconvenient purchase, the beauty of it is that a lot of proceeds go to animal shelters and animal care.
While registration isn’t expensive, finding a dog to register in Ohio might be, especially if you plan on buying a puppy from a breeder. The good news is that if you need help finding puppies for sale in Ohio, resources like Dog Academy have your back.
Our Final Thoughts on How to Register a Dog in Ohio
Registering a dog in Ohio isn’t challenging. In fact, once you know where to start, it’s as simple as getting it done.
That said, it’s something that a lot of pet owners forget about, so make sure you learn how to register your dog in Ohio to avoid breaking the law. What’s more, once your dog is registered, it’s easier for them to return home if they’re ever lost.
