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Owning a dog

Owning a dog can bring joy to you and your family. Here's what you need to know about dog registration.

New Zealand and Hutt City Council have laws and guidelines to help you look after your dog in a way that is good for you, your dog and the community. In the sections below you can learn how to register your dog with Council and what your responsibilities are as a dog owner, as well as other things you need to know as a dog owner in Lower Hutt.

Council adopted a new dog control policy in December 2015. Our Dog Control Bylaw was updated in 8 February 2016.

Renew your dog registration

It’s easy to renew your dog registration. When it’s time to re-register your dog, we'll send you an invoice. If you pay before 31 July 2021 you'll receive a discount.

Registering your new dog

All dogs over 3 months old must be registered. Find out how to register your dog and apply online.

Responsible Dog Owner status (RDO)

Council wants to encourage and support responsible dog ownership, so we offer reduced dog registration fees for people who can show they are responsible dog owners.

Change of ownership or address

We need to know if you're moving or changing ownership of your dog.

Microchipping your dog

All new puppies and any dogs being registered in New Zealand for the first time need to be microchipped within 2 months of being registered.

Impounded or seized dogs

Your dog could be impounded or seized if it is allowed to roam uncontrolled, is unregistered or is a potential threat to public safety.

Dangerous and menacing dogs

Dogs showing potentially dangerous behaviour and certain breeds of dog are classified as dangerous or menacing. Different regulations apply to these dogs.

One Tag

One Tag is the only tag you’ll need for your dog as long as he or she lives in Lower Hutt.