Dog owners in Pennsylvania are now able to purchase annual licenses for their pets for the year 2026. The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture has announced that licenses must be obtained for all dogs aged three months and older before the deadline of January 1, 2026. The licensing period opened on Monday, with purchases available through county treasurer’s offices. Owners can obtain the licenses in person, by mail, or online at licenseyourdogpa.pa.gov.
Licensing pets is a legal requirement in Pennsylvania and plays a crucial role in ensuring lost dogs can be swiftly reunited with their owners, reducing the chances of them ending up in shelters. The revenue generated from these licenses supports the Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement, which is responsible for inspecting licensed kennels, addressing illegal operations, and managing dangerous dogs.
According to Russell Redding, the state Secretary of Agriculture, “Pennsylvanians have made it clear that they expect dog owners, kennels, breeders, and shelters to be held to high standards.” He emphasized the community’s desire for safety from stray and potentially dangerous dogs. The Shapiro Administration has implemented updates to state law that enhance community oversight by increasing the number of dog wardens, simplifying the licensing process for dog owners, and clarifying the regulations for kennel owners.
The cost for an annual license is set at $10.80, while lifetime licenses are available for $52.80 for dogs with permanent identification, such as a microchip or tattoo. Discounts are offered to senior adults and individuals with disabilities, allowing them to obtain an annual license for $8.80 or a lifetime license for $36.80.
The state’s website provides an interactive map where users can select their county to access licensing purchase links and contact information for local treasurers and dog wardens. The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture has noted that “the cost of a license is far less than the penalty for being caught without one.” Owners who neglect to license their dogs may face fines up to $500 for each unlicensed pet, in addition to court costs.
Having a visible license on a dog’s collar significantly increases the likelihood of a lost pet being returned home. In 2024, only 3% of stray dogs in Pennsylvania were immediately reunited with their owners, and 23% were taken to shelters outside their counties due to space constraints.
Annual dog licenses are valid until December 31 of the year in which they are purchased. For example, a license bought this month will expire on December 31, 2026. Dog owners are encouraged to act promptly to ensure compliance and the safety of their pets.
