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Dog Tags

In West Virginia, counties require dog owners to license their dogs annually by purchasing dog tags. These fees help fund local animal control services and are regulated under West Virginia Code §19-20.

1. Dog Licensing Requirements (§19-20-2, WV Code)

  • Every dog over six months old must be licensed annually in the county where the owner resides.
  • Licenses (dog tags) are obtained from the County Assessor's Office.
  • A dog tag serves as proof of licensing and should be attached to the dog's collar.
  • Failure to license a dog may result in fines or penalties.

2. Cost of Dog Tags (§19-20-2, WV Code)

  • The annual license fee varies by county, but the minimum fee is $3 per dog.
  • If a dog resides within a municipality, there may be an additional city license fee.
  • The fee for a kennel license (for breeding or housing multiple dogs) is set by the county commission and is typically higher.

3. When to Register Your Dog

  • The licensing period runs from July 1 to June 30 each year.
  • Owners must renew their dog license before July 1 annually.
  • The County Assessor typically collects dog tax fees between January and June when assessing personal property.

4. Penalties for Non-Compliance (§19-20-7, WV Code)

  • If a dog is found without a tag, the owner may face a fine of up to $10 per unlicensed dog.
  • Animal control officers or law enforcement can impound unlicensed dogs.
  • Owners must pay all fees and penalties to reclaim their dog from an impound facility.

5. Dangerous or Nuisance Dogs (§19-20-19 & §19-20-20, WV Code)

  • If a dog is found dangerous or a public nuisance, a $10.00 tax is assessed to support animal control programs.
  • Owners of dangerous dogs may be required to purchase a special permit and maintain liability insurance.


Key Takeaways


✔ All dogs over six months must be licensed annually.
✔ Fees start at $3 per dog but vary by county.
✔ Dog licenses expire on June 30 each year and should be renewed before July 1.
✔ Unlicensed dogs may result in fines or impoundment.
✔ Counties and municipalities may impose additional rules and fees.

Dog Tag Form