How to Attach Dog ID Tags to Shock Collars: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated at: 10/05/2025

Losing your dog is a terrifying experience, and ensuring they can be quickly identified is crucial. While shock collars remain a controversial training tool for some, many dog owners utilize them for managing behavioral issues. If you're one of them, having your dog properly identified is paramount, even when using a shock collar. A missing dog, regardless of training methods, is a stressful situation that proper identification can help alleviate. Attaching ID tags to your dog's shock collar adds an extra layer of security, ensuring your pet's safe return if they ever become separated from you.

This is especially important as a standard collar might come off, leaving your dog without crucial identification information. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of securely attaching ID tags to your dog's shock collar, ensuring your pet's information is readily available, even in unexpected circumstances. Let's get started!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Hammer
  • Pliers
  • Screwdriver
  • Putty knife (optional)
  • New name tags with rivets
  • New collars
Safety Guidelines
  • Ensure the ID tags are securely attached to prevent them from detaching and getting lost. Use strong, appropriately sized split rings or a durable tag holder.
  • Avoid attaching heavy or bulky tags that could interfere with the collar's functionality or cause discomfort to your dog. Keep the overall weight light.
  • Regularly check the attachment of the ID tags to ensure they remain securely fastened and haven't become damaged or loosened.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shock Collar

    • Remove old collars and name tags from the shock collars.
    Remove old collars and name tags from the shock collars.
    Prepare the Shock Collar

  2. Attach the First Rivet

    • Align the new name tag with the holes on the shock collar.
    • Insert the rivet through the holes in the name tag and collar.
    • Using a hammer and potentially pliers, firmly secure the rivet by flattening it on the underside of the collar. Ensure the name and phone number are facing outwards.
    Using a hammer and potentially pliers, firmly secure the rivet by flattening it on the underside of the collar. Ensure the name and phone number are facing outwards.Using a hammer and potentially pliers, firmly secure the rivet by flattening it on the underside of the collar. Ensure the name and phone number are facing outwards.Using a hammer and potentially pliers, firmly secure the rivet by flattening it on the underside of the collar. Ensure the name and phone number are facing outwards.
    Attach the First Rivet

  3. Attach the Second Rivet

    • Repeat steps 2-4 for the second rivet on the name tag.
    Repeat steps 2-4 for the second rivet on the name tag.
    Attach the Second Rivet

  4. Attach the Receiver

    • Attach the receiver to the collar, ensuring the light faces the dog’s face.
    Attach the receiver to the collar, ensuring the light faces the dog’s face.
    Attach the Receiver

Read more: DIY Studded Dog Collar with Reflective Piping: A Comprehensive Guide

Tips

  • Don't attach the name tag to the buckle side of the receiver, as the tag won't fit through the slots.
  • Ensure the name and phone number are on the top side of the collar.
  • If the name tag is too long, trim it with scissors to prevent your dog from chewing and swallowing the plastic.
  • Consider the size of your dog's neck when choosing collar sizes; you need enough space but not excessively loose.
  • Position the receiver so that it's always facing the way you prefer to handle the shock collar.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using the Wrong Type of Attachment

Reason: Many shock collar straps are too narrow or made of materials that don't easily accommodate standard dog ID tags or split rings. This can lead to the tags falling off or the strap being damaged.
Solution: Use a strong, appropriately sized split ring or a tag specifically designed for shock collars to securely attach the ID tags.

2. Attaching Tags Too Loosely

Reason: Loosely attached tags can easily swing and get caught on objects, potentially causing discomfort to the dog or even leading to the tags getting lost or damaged.
Solution: Ensure the split ring or attachment is secure and the tags are close enough to the collar to prevent excessive movement.

FAQs

Can I attach any type of ID tag to a shock collar?
It's best to use lightweight, durable tags made of metal or strong plastic to avoid interference with the collar's function and prevent damage. Avoid large, bulky tags that might snag or interfere with the collar's operation.
My dog's shock collar has a very narrow ring. How can I attach multiple tags?
Use a small, lightweight split ring or key ring to connect multiple tags together, then attach the single, combined ring to the collar. Ensure the combined weight doesn't add undue strain on the collar.
What if my dog chews on their shock collar and the tags come off?
Regularly inspect the collar and tags for any damage or looseness. Consider using a collar with a strong, secure buckle or clip, and a durable tag attachment method. If your dog shows signs of chewing excessively, address this behavioral issue to ensure their safety and the security of their ID.