How to be a responsible dog owner

In addition to dogs enhancing the lives of their owners, dog ownership involves owner commitment and owner responsibilities.

• consider adopting from a local authority dog shelter or animal welfare charity
• if you decide to buy a dog, consult your vet for advice
• never agree to collect a dog without seeing the dog in its home environment
• reputable breeders have waiting lists, so please be prepared to wait
• if sourcing your dog from a Dog Breeding Establishment (DBE), first check the premises is registered with the local City/County Council
• a registered DBE will have a registration certificate on display in the premises

• in Ireland, if you keep, sell, purchase or rehome a dog, your dog must be microchipped and registered on a database approved by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine
• in Ireland, there are currently four approved databases - Animark, FIDO, Irish Kennel Club, MicroDogID
• when purchasing a dog, you must show the seller an accepted form of identification (Passport, Driver’s Licence or Photo ID issued by An Garda Síochána or a Minister of the government) and utility bill as proof of address
• ensure the seller provides you with your dog’s Microchipping Certificate of Registration
• you must complete Change of Ownership information on the microchip database provider’s website and receive a new Certificate of Registration
• you must ensure all details are accurate and up-to-date on the database
• if your dog goes missing, there is a greater chance of being reunited if your dog is microchipped
• please contact your vet for information on microchipping

• if you own a dog, you must have a dog licence
• dog licences may be purchased online at www.licences.ie or in your local Post Office
• the current fee for an individual dog licence, valid for one year, is €20. The fee for a lifetime licence is €140
• your dog must wear a collar or harness with your contact details attached
• consider adding your phone number to your dog’s identification tag
• a dog licence can be purchased at your local Post Office www.anpost.com/Store-Locator

• provide clean water, appropriate food and shelter suited to your dog’s needs
• exercise your dog daily (exercise needs depend on dog breed)
• groom your dog regularly to keep coat and skin healthy
• play with your dog to keep them stimulated
• socialise your dog regularly with other dogs
• train your dog to understand basic commands

Please consult your vet for professional advice on veterinary care including vaccinations, neutering, flea and worm treatment and health checks.

• as it is a legal requirement that dogs are accompanied and kept under ‘effectual control’, it is recommended to keep your dog on a lead in public spaces
• make sure your dog does not cause a nuisance to others and respect rules in relation to where dogs are welcome
• additional rules may apply to certain locations. For example, farmers often request that dogs are not brought onto their lands or commonage, particularly when sheep or other livestock are present
• local bye-laws on dog access may apply in specific areas such as beaches or public parks
• when planning a hike or trip, check in advance for restrictions on dogs
• in Ireland, extra requirements apply to certain breeds (and crosses of these breeds) in public places. These breeds must be securely muzzled and led on a strong chain or leash of 2 metres or less by someone over 16 years of age who is capable of controlling the dog

The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), the Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD) and Local Authorities have compiled this guide to responsible dog ownership in Ireland.

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