How Much Does It Cost to Microchip a Dog?

Key Takeaways

• Microchipping your dog improves reunion odds if they ever go missing.
• Typical cost to microchip a dog ranges around $30–$60 at clinics.
• The procedure is fast, safe, and often done during routine visits.
• Registering the microchip and updating contact details is essential.
• Even indoor dogs benefit from microchips — don’t assume they’re exempt.
• Ask about low-cost microchip bundles or clinic specials in Murrieta.

When you bring a dog home there are a few things you think about right away.

Food, toys, a collar and tag. Another thing that is just as important is a microchip.

A lot of owners ask how much it costs and if it is worth it. The truth is it is not expensive and it is a one time thing that gives peace of mind for years.

During a Pet microchipping service, the chip gets placed during a regular visit and the staff will guide you with registration so your details are always up to date.

In this guide we will talk about the average dog microchip cost, how it works and what you should know before you go to the vet for such Pet medical services.

What is a microchip for dogs?

A microchip is a tiny radio ID, about the size of a grain of rice, that sits just under the skin. It stores a unique number that links to your contact details in a registry. It does not track location and it has no battery. The chip helps vets and shelters match a found dog to the right person once the number is looked up.

Quick facts

• Permanent ID that supports collars and tags
• No GPS and no moving parts
• Works for life, but only if your contact info is kept current in the registry

What Does Microchipping a Dog Do? (Important)

Microchipping gives your dog a reliable backup ID. When a clinic or shelter scans the chip, the number pulls up your details from the registry so you can be reached fast. It is a simple way to prove ownership and speed up reunions.

Applications and use

• Reunites lost pets with families
• Helps animal services identify owners during emergencies
• Required for all dogs entering the United States as of August 1, 2024, along with other travel rules such as minimum age and paperwork

You might also want to read: The Importance of Spaying and Neutering Your Pet

Average Dog Microchip Cost in the U.S.

Most pet owners pay about 50 to 70 dollars for the implant at a full service clinic. National roundups continue to cite around 50 dollars as a common figure, while community events often price it closer to 20 to 25 dollars.

Typical range

• Vet clinics: usually 50 to 70 dollars
• Low cost clinics or shelter days: often 20 to 25 dollars
• Mobile or in home service: chip price is similar, total is higher once a house call fee is added

Registration costs

• Many providers include basic registration
• Free registration is available for any brand of chip through 24Petwatch’s registry
• If you switch registries or add extra services, small one time fees may apply depending on the provider

Puppy microchipping cost

Puppies cost the same as adult dogs. Many owners bundle the chip with vaccine visits or spay and neuter to save an extra office fee.

Is microchipping covered by pet insurance?

Coverage varies. Standard accident and illness plans often do not reimburse for microchips. Some wellness or preventive add ons do cover it, so it pays to check your plan or request a wellness rider before your appointment.

Where Are Microchips Placed in Dogs?

The standard dog microchip location is under the skin between the shoulder blades on the midline. The chip is injected with a single needle, then scanned to confirm it reads. Most dogs tolerate it like a vaccine. This is also how most clinics handle getting a dog chipped step by step.

Dog microchipping procedure at a glance

• A sterile chip is scanned in the package to verify the number
• Skin over the shoulders is gently lifted, the chip is injected, then scanned again
• Staff complete or guide you through online registration the same day

Conclusion:

Microchipping is a one time step that makes a big difference if your dog ever slips a leash or gate.

Plan on 50 to 70 dollars at most clinics, less at community events, and make sure your registration is complete and up to date. If you want reimbursement, look for a wellness add on with your pet insurance.

The chip sits between the shoulder blades, the visit is quick, and discomfort is brief.

If you are local, our vet near Murrieta team can place the chip during a wellness exam and handle the paperwork so your contact info is correct.

You might also want to read: How Much Does It Cost to Microchip a Cat?

FAQs

What’s the minimum age to microchip a dog?

Most puppies can be microchipped at about 8 weeks, often during early vaccine visits. Your vet may adjust timing for very small breeds.

What does the law say about dog chips?

Rules vary by city and county for resident dogs. For travel, the CDC requires all dogs entering the U.S. to be microchipped and at least six months old starting August 1, 2024. Check the CDC page and your airline before you fly with a pet.

Can microchipping be painful for dogs?

It feels like a quick injection. Most dogs show brief discomfort, then settle right away. Clinics and shelters perform this daily with very few issues.