Keeping dogs

Under control means the dog is not causing a nuisance or danger and that the person in charge of the dog has it under continuous surveillance and is able to get the dog to obey by use of leash and, when not on a leash, by use of vocal commands, hand signals, whistles or other effective means.

If possible, ask the person who is looking after your dog to reregister it for you.

If you are here for more than six weeks, you will need to come in and swap the tag for a Dunedin tag at no charge, and fill out registration form. You can swap it back when you go home.

Yes - you will need to provide proof from the appropriate association. You can register your dog as companion dog if the dog has completed approved training and has supporting documentation

Yes - please find out more about adopting a dog.

You must microchip dogs that are:

• Being registered for the first time
• Impounded and unregistered
• Impounded a second time since 1 July 2006
• All of the following breeds:
  • Brazilian Fila
  • Dogo Argentino
  • Japanese Tosa
  • Pit Bull Terriers or predominantly Pit Bull types
• Classified as dangerous or menacing by action since 1 December 2003

Working farm dogs do not need to be microchipped although you may need to prove that this applies to your dog. If your dog is impounded while unregistered, it may be microchipped.

If your dog is not microchipped within two months of its registration, you may be issued a $300 infringement notice.

Generally it’s owners who are legally responsible for the behaviour or their dogs, however if a dog is being walked or is in the care of someone else, an individual or a business, it is their responsibility if the dog commits an offence.