Dog Microchip Registration Guide | Mandatory Implementation Overview and Procedure Flow | ブリちょく
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Dog Microchip Registration Guide | Mandatory Implementation Overview and Procedure Flow
A comprehensive guide to the mandatory dog microchip implantation and registration system implemented in 2022, covering the overview, registration procedures with AIPO, implantation costs, and how to update owner information.
Key Takeaways
A comprehensive guide to the mandatory dog microchip implantation and registration system implemented in 2022, covering the overview, registration procedures with AIPO, implantation costs, and how to update owner information.
Overview of Mandatory Microchip Registration
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The BreederDirect editorial team specializes in care information for animals, covering veterinary care and breeding to deliver beginner-friendly guides.
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In June 2022, the revised Animal Welfare Management Law was enacted, making microchip implantation mandatory for dogs and cats purchased or transferred from first-category animal handlers such as breeders and pet shops. More than three years have passed since implementation, and as of 2026, this system is now widely established. While microchip implantation for dogs and cats already in care remains voluntary, there is potential for the scope of the mandate to expand in the future, so early implementation is recommended.
Applicable Parties and Obligations
- Breeders, pet shops, etc. (first-category animal handlers): Mandatory to implant and register microchips before sale
- General pet owners (existing dogs and cats): Implantation and registration are voluntary (no penalties)
- New owners acquiring dogs and cats: When purchasing from breeders, etc., updating owner registration information is mandatory
Since breeders and sellers are responsible for the actual microchip implantation, the main task for pet owners is "registering ownership information changes." Failing to make this change constitutes non-compliance, so the procedure should be completed as soon as possible after transfer.
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What is a Microchip?
A microchip is a glass device measuring approximately 2mm in diameter and 12mm in length, implanted subcutaneously at the back of the neck using a specialized syringe. It records a 15-digit ID number compliant with ISO standards (ISO11784/11785) that can be read contactlessly with a dedicated reader.
This ID is registered in a database operated by the Ministry of the Environment and serves as a means for authorities that discover lost, injured, or disaster-stricken animals to identify their owners. The chip itself is a passive RFID tag requiring no battery, functioning indefinitely. The burden on the dog's body is minimal, and significant changes in health after implantation are rare.
While collars and ID tags can fall off, microchips are implanted within the body and carry no risk of loss—this is the greatest advantage. Following the Great East Japan Earthquake and other recent natural disasters, numerous cases have been documented where microchips helped reunite animals with their owners.
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Procedures Pet Owners Must Follow
When Acquiring a New Dog or Cat (Purchasing from a Breeder)
Breeders transfer animals with microchips already implanted and registered. Pet owners must complete the following procedures:
Receive the "microchip number" and "registration certificate (microchip information notification)" from the breeder
Create an account on the Ministry of the Environment's "Dog and Cat Microchip Information Registration" web service (AIPO: Animal Individual Portal)
Apply for ownership change (update the owner information registered by the breeder to your own)
Registration fee: ¥300 per animal (payment via credit card, electronic money, etc.)
All procedures are completed online with no need to visit a government office. Since the microchip number on the notification and the email address registered by the breeder are used for verification, it is helpful to confirm this information with the breeder before transfer for a smooth process.
When Implanting a Microchip in an Already-Owned Dog or Cat
Have a microchip implanted at your veterinary clinic (costs vary by clinic but typically range from ¥3,000 to ¥6,000)
Register with AIPO (registration fee ¥300)
Note that this is a separate procedure from dog registration with municipalities under the Rabies Prevention Law
Remember that microchip implantation is a medical procedure that only veterinarians can perform. Never attempt self-treatment.
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Differences and Relationship Between Rabies Registration
Often confused with microchip registration is dog registration (registration tag) under the Rabies Prevention Law. These are two completely separate systems, each requiring independent procedures.
Item
Microchip Registration
Rabies Registration (Tag)
Legal basis
Animal Welfare Management Law
Rabies Prevention Law
Registration authority
Ministry of the Environment AIPO
Residential municipality
Target animals
Dogs and cats
Dogs only
Cost
¥300
Varies by municipality (approximately ¥3,000)
Annual procedures
Not required
Rabies vaccination and notification required annually
With the 2022 law revision, a system was introduced to consolidate microchip registration with municipal dog registration, and as of 2026, participating municipalities are gradually expanding. However, not all municipalities automatically link these systems, so you should verify whether your municipality has adopted consolidation beforehand. If your municipality has not, you must register the microchip with AIPO and separately notify your municipality. It is important to accurately understand the procedures.
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Information Management After Registration
Microchip implantation is not the end of the process. Registration information must always be current to be useful in an emergency.
When Moving or Changing Contact Information
If your address or phone number changes, promptly update your information on AIPO. If the information is outdated, shelters that find a lost dog cannot contact you.
When Transferring to New Owners or Individual Sales
If you transfer a dog or cat to another individual, you must also update the owner information on AIPO. Either have the transferring party apply for the change or share the information so the receiving party can complete the procedure.
When the Animal Passes Away
When a dog or cat dies, update the registration information on AIPO to reflect "deceased." This prevents unnecessary inquiries.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can a microchip move around inside the body?
Rarely, the chip may shift slightly from the implantation site, but this almost never causes health problems. Even if the position shifts, it will function normally as long as it remains readable by the scanner.
Is implantation painful?
Since it is inserted with a specialized needle, there is momentary pain, but procedures are typically performed without sedation or anesthesia. For puppies, implanting the microchip at the same time as vaccination reduces the burden.
What if I want to take my dog abroad?
Many countries require ISO microchips as an entry requirement. However, there are additional requirements such as scanner standard compatibility and rabies vaccination certificates, so we strongly recommend checking the animal quarantine requirements for your destination in advance on the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries website.
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Purchasing Microchip-Registered Animals on Br-Choku
Breeders listing animals on br-choku properly implant and register microchips in accordance with the revised Animal Welfare Management Law. When purchasing, simply ask, "Could I receive a notification of the microchip number?" to ensure smooth ownership change procedures on AIPO. Browse the dog breeds or cat breeds you are interested in and find a trustworthy breeder.
Meeting legal obligations while bringing home animals from reliable breeders with confidence—this is the direct sales platform br-choku aims to provide. If you have concerns about procedures when making your first purchase, feel free to consult with the selling breeder.
