Responsible dog ownership
Owning and caring for a dog is great fun and very rewarding, but it is also a big responsibility and a long-term caring and financial commitment.
If you are thinking of owning a dog, you should consider your lifestyle and home environment and also the impact that it will have on your lives.
Dog fouling
Not clearing up after your dog has fouled is a criminal offence and not being aware is not a defence. If you fail to clear up after your dog you are guilty of an offence and if convicted you could be fined up to £1,000. Use a poop scoop or plastic bag to remove your dog's faeces.
Identity and registration
Microchip your dog and make sure he is wearing a dog collar and tag. This will make it easier for you to find him again if he gets lost.
Under the Control of Dogs Order 1992, all dogs must wear a collar and identity tag in a public place. The tag must show your name, address and contact number.
We do not run a dog registration scheme. However, Battersea Dogs Home provide information on identifying your animal, including microchips, collar and tag and the Petsafe scheme.
Micro chipping is one of the ways to tag your dog. See our micro chipping page for more information.
Insurance for your dog's health
We recommend that you take out pet insurance to help pay for unexpected vet bills.
Lost dogs
See our pages on stray and lost pets for information on what to do if your dog goes missing.
Training and good behaviour
Teach your dog to be obedient. Dog training clubs can help and are a good way to get your dog to socialise with other dogs. For information about dog training contact us.
Battersea Cats and Dogs Home operates a Behaviour Advice Line (0905 020 0222). Staff can advise on most issues including basic training, house training and problems with leaving dogs alone for some time.
Who to contact if you have complaints and concerns about dogs.
Most dogs are not dangerous. Unprovoked aggression from dogs is not a natural behaviour. Any dog can be dangerous if it is not kept responsibly.
You should be aware of the law regarding dog ownership and your responsibilities.
There are a few things you need to consider before you get a dog.
You should make proper arrangements for the care of your dog when you go on holiday.
You control your dog's lifestyle and it is your responsibility to make sure that its needs are met, whatever the circumstances.
More advice
More advice is available from: