From neighbourhood parks to beachside strolls, dogs are part of everyday life across Tāmaki Makaurau – and with more than 132,000 pups calling the region home, Auckland Council is reminding owners it’s time to get them registered.
Dog registrations open on 1 June, with owners encouraged to complete the process before 1 August. This year’s bright green tags will once again be a familiar sight on collars across the region, helping quickly identify registered dogs whether they’re out on a walk, visiting a café or playing fetch at the park.
Auckland Council Animal Management Manager Elly Waitoa says registration is one of the easiest ways owners can look after their pets and support safer communities.
“Registering your dog is a small job that makes a big difference,” she says. It helps us reunite lost dogs with their families faster, supports animal management services across Auckland and promotes responsible dog ownership.
Look at me! I'm registered for the coming season.
“We know Aucklanders love their dogs, and getting registered on time is one of the best ways to show it.”
Last year, nearly 90 per cent of dogs known to Auckland Council were registered. Labrador retrievers remain the region’s most popular breed, followed by Staffordshire Bull Terriers and Border Collies. When it comes to names, Bella, Luna and Charlie continue to top the list.
South Auckland has the highest number of dogs in the region, followed closely by the north.
Chair of the Regulatory and Safety Committee, Councillor Josephine Bartley, says responsible dog ownership plays an important role in keeping people and pets safe.
“Earlier this year I experienced firsthand how frightening a dog attack can be when I was trying to protect my elderly dog during an incident on a city footpath,” she says.
“It reinforced just how important responsible dog ownership is – not only for the safety of our pets, but for our communities too.
“Most dog owners are doing the right thing, and registration is one of the simplest ways to show your dog is cared for, identifiable and part of a safer Auckland. The green tag is a visible reminder that your dog is registered and protected.”
Green with delight - registered and legal on the beach.
Registration fees help fund essential animal management services, including shelter care, responding to incidents and programmes that support responsible ownership. In the past year, more than 1,580 dogs were de-sexed through council-supported initiatives, funded in part by infringement fines.
Owners can renew their registration online using myAUCKLAND with their 11-digit reference number. From mid-June, reminders will be sent by email, text or post, and tags are mailed within 10 working days of payment.
Dogs must also be microchipped within two months of registration. Council-run shelters offer low-cost microchipping services from July, making it easier for owners to stay compliant.
Registering before 1 August helps avoid late fees and ensures your dog meets the requirements of the Dog Control Act 1996.
To register or find out more, visit the Auckland Council website.