The Best Dog Tags

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One of the most important parts of loving our pets is ensuring they're always as safe as possible in this big, sometimes scary world. Dog tags are engraved or printed with your dog's name in addition to your personal contact information. In the worst-case scenario that your furry friends escape or get lost, anyone can use their dog tag as a map to bring them back home. Your pup's size and personality all play a part in choosing the perfect dog tag. We've rounded up a few of our favorites to help you pick one you and your pet will love.

What To Look For

We concluded that the best dog tags are durable, decorative, and include hardware for hanging on your dog’s collar. With these things in mind, our top pick is the dog tag from GoTags. The stainless steel tag comes in various shapes, including bones and basic rectangles. The strong metal is designed for long-term use, and each tag includes a ring to secure it. We also love the stainless steel dog tags from Acatinthetree. These customizable tags are available in different sizes and metal finishes to suit your pup. You can choose your favorite font to engrave their name and contact information. Plus, you have the option to include a decorative illustration to make the tag more personal. Keep reading to discover your new favorite dog tag.

GoTags Stainless Steel Pet ID Tag

GoTags Stainless Steel Pet ID Tag

Simple and sturdy

These stainless steel dog tags have plenty of space on both sides to print your contact information.
Best Overall

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Basic but practical, this dog tag from GoTags does its job well. There are multiple tag shapes to choose from, and your dog’s name will be engraved in large letters on the front of the tag. The other side is set aside for your name, phone number, and home address in case someone needs to contact you about your pet. The durable stainless steel won’t bend or break, even if you have an overactive pup. And it even comes with a metal loop to hang from your furry friend’s collar.

Pros:

  • The text is bold and easy to read.
  • You can choose a small or regular tag based on your dog’s size.

Cons:

  • The metal loop isn’t stainless steel, so it could rust if exposed to water for long periods.

Providence Engraving Pet ID Tags

Providence Engraving Pet ID Tags

A colorful collection

Choose from one of these brightly colored tags to make it stand out on your dog's collar.
Runner Up

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Add a pop of color to your pet’s collar with a dog tag from Providence Engraving. The metal tags are available in a rainbow of colors to make them easier to see. And, using a special process, your custom tag will be etched with your dog’s name and contact information in case of emergencies. The large and small options are lightweight, so they won’t weigh down your dog’s collar. Plus, the font is clear enough to read up close or far away.

Pros:

  • The ink is pressed into the engraved text, so it won’t rub off if your dog is wearing other tags on their collar.
  • There is enough space to print your dog’s vet information and a microchip notice.

Cons:

  • The lighter-colored tags aren’t as easy to read.

Io Tags Personalized Dog Tags

Io Tags Personalized Dog Tags

Affordable accessories

These pawprint dog tags are a budget-friendly option for your playful pup.
Best Value

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Having a dog means treating them with love and new toys. But it can get expensive quickly if you aren’t careful. That’s why we love these personalized dog tags from Io Tags. Affordable and decorative, the miniature tags have added sparkle that your dog will love showing off. The paw-shaped tags have space on the back to include your dog’s name along with your home address and phone number underneath. It’s hard to pass up this incredible deal.

Pros:

  • The stainless steel tags are durable and easy to read.
  • The protective coating on top of the glitter will keep it from flaking.

Cons:

  • This tag is only available in one size.

Acatinthetree Personalized Dog ID Tags

Acatinthetree Personalized Dog ID Tags

Shiny and new

Give your pet's collar a makeover with a dainty, engraved dog tag.
Most Decorative

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Looking for an accessory to ensure your pup is always picture-perfect? These adorable dog tags are customizable, so you can create a design that fits your lifestyle. The round tags come in four sizes and four metal finishes that can be engraved front and back. You can even choose a bold or delicate font to engrave your dog’s name and personal information. But we’ve saved the best for last. You can select a tiny illustration to show up on the front side of the tag. From rainbows to crowns, it will be hard to pick just one to bring your dog’s tag to life.

Pros:

  • The metal tags are hand-polished after the engraving process to make them shine.
  • These handmade tags are high-quality and lightweight.

Cons:

  • You will need a pair of pliers or a similar tool to attach the tag to your dog’s collar.

Love Your Pets Silicone Pet ID Tag

Love Your Pets Silicone Pet ID Tag

Built to last

Active dogs can swim, play, and run without damaging this heavy-duty dog tag.
Most Durable

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If your dog loves swimming in the pool and wrestling with their friends, they need a dog tag from Love Your Pets. Each tag is made entirely from durable silicone with contact and personal information engraved into the tag. There are so many designs to choose from to fit your dog’s personality, and the colors will never fade, even after lots of time spent outdoors. These soundless tags don’t make any noise when they hit your dog’s collar, food bowl, or toys. What’s not to love?

Pros:

  • The connection loop is built into the silicone tag.
  • The lightweight tags won’t rub or irritate your dog’s skin.

Cons:

  • You will have to purchase a metal connector ring separately.

What should I include on my dog’s tag?

There are a few important details that should always be printed on a dog tag, including your dog’s name, your home address, and your phone number. If there is space on the tag, you should consider adding a couple of other notes. You could share your dog’s medical needs, microchip information, and possibly a note with a reward for returning your furry friend.

How do I keep my dog’s tag from making noise?

Dog tags tend to make a lot of noise, especially if there are multiple tags on the same keyring. To keep it from jangling, we recommend a tag silencer. This is a piece of silicone or plastic that acts as a frame for the dog tag. It prevents the edges of the tag from hitting your dog’s food bowl and other objects to keep disruptions down throughout the day.

About the Author

Danielle is a proud dog mom of the friendliest golden retriever named Juniper. Even on bad days, Juniper has that uncanny ability to cheer her up. As a big-time dog lover, Danielle wants every person to know the joy that comes with having a four-legged friend in their lives. You can count on Danielle to find the best products for you and your pet.

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