Microchipping your dog is one of the best ways to keep them safe. If they ever get lost, a microchip can help bring them home.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- What a microchip is
- How microchipping works
- When and where to get it done
- How much it costs
- What the law says in your state
Let’s dive in!
What Is a Microchip?
A microchip is a tiny implant (about the size of a grain of rice) that goes under your dog’s skin, usually between their shoulder blades. It holds a unique 15-digit ID number.
This number links to your contact details in a microchip registry. So if your dog is found, a vet, council, or shelter can scan the chip, look up the number, and call you.
✅ It’s NOT a GPS tracker — it doesn’t show your dog’s location.
Is Microchipping Mandatory in Australia?
Yes, in most parts of Australia, microchipping is the law. Here’s what’s required:
| State | Microchip Required? | By What Age? |
|---|---|---|
| QLD | ✅ Yes | Before 12 weeks old |
| NSW | ✅ Yes | By 12 weeks or point of sale |
| VIC | ✅ Yes | Before registration (12 weeks) |
| SA | ✅ Yes | Before 12 weeks old |
| WA | ✅ Yes | Before 3 months old |
| TAS | ✅ Yes | Before 6 months old |
| ACT | ✅ Yes | Before 12 weeks old |
| NT | Not mandatory (yet) | Voluntary but encouraged |
How to Microchip Your Dog (Step-by-Step)
Here’s how to get your dog microchipped in 4 easy steps:
1. Book an Appointment
You can get your dog microchipped at:
- Your local vet
- A council-run microchipping day
- Animal welfare groups like Animal Welfare League, or an RSPCA branch.
Some breeders or shelters may have already done this. Ask to see your dog’s microchip certificate.
2. Get the Chip Implanted
Book a Microchip Implant appointment to do this. The process is quick and safe — like getting a vaccine. Most dogs barely flinch.
3. Register the Microchip
In Australia, it’s not enough to just implant the chip. You must register it with a licensed microchip registry like:
- PetCloud Microchip Registry
- Central Animal Records
- Australasian Animal Registry
- NSW Pet Registry (NSW only)
- Dogs and Cats Online (SA only)
Make sure your contact details are correct and kept up to date!
4. Keep the Certificate
After registration, you’ll receive a certificate. Store this with your pet’s records.
How Much Does It Cost to Microchip a Dog?
Prices range from $20 to $80, depending on:
- Your vet or council’s pricing
- Whether it’s done during a discount day
Tip: Some rescue groups offer free or low-cost microchipping events.
Already Microchipped? Here’s How to Update Your Details
If you’ve moved house or changed phone numbers, log into your microchip registry’s website and update your pet’s profile.
💡 If you’re not sure which registry your dog is in, use PetCloud’s Microchip Lookup Tool. Just type in the 15-digit number.
Why Registering your Dog’s Microchip is Important
- Over 180,000 dogs go missing in Australia each year – Having your contact details up to date on PetCloud means faster reunions if they escape or go missing and may prevent them being killed by a Council or shelter.
- Dogs with a microchip are 3x more likely to be returned to their owners (Source: RSPCA).
- A microchip lasts a lifetime and can be scanned anywhere in the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do microchips hurt dogs?
No. It’s quick, safe, and similar to getting vaccinated.
Can I track my dog with the microchip?
No. A microchip is not GPS. But it helps shelters and vets find your contact info if your dog is found.
What if I adopted a dog with no microchip?
Book a vet visit as soon as possible to get one implanted and registered.
Do I need to pay again if I change registries?
Some registries charge a transfer or update fee. Others are free.
Final Tip: Check Your Dog’s Microchip Today
Many Aussie pet parents don’t realise their details are outdated or not registered at all.
Don’t wait until your dog is lost. Check your dog’s microchip is:
- ✅ Implanted
- ✅ Registered
- ✅ Up to date
🐕 Need Help? PetCloud Can Assist
At PetCloud, we offer a licensed Microchip Registry that works across Australia. You can:
- Register your pet’s microchip
- Update your contact details anytime
- Rest easy knowing your pet is protected
