Owning a dog in Montgomery County, Ohio comes with an important legal responsibility obtaining a valid dog license. The Montgomery County Auditor’s Office manages dog licensing to ensure proper identification, support local animal services, and keep pets safe in the community. This guide explains everything you need to know, from why a license is required to how to apply, renew, and update your dog’s information.
Why a Dog License Is Required in Montgomery County
In Ohio, state law requires all dogs over three months old to be licensed (ORC (Ohio Revised Code) 955.21). A dog license acts as your pet’s legal identification and helps local authorities return lost dogs to their owners quickly and safely.
Key Benefits of a Dog License
- Helps lost dogs get home faster
- Proves legal ownership
- Supports county animal shelters and dog warden services
- Protects your dog from costly fines
- Required by Ohio law
Licensing your dog each year keeps you compliant and supports community safety programs.
Types of Dog Licenses Available
Montgomery County offers several licensing options to meet your needs:
1. Annual Dog License
Valid for one calendar year (January 1 – December 31). Must be renewed each year.
2. Three Year Dog License
Valid for three years from the date of purchase. Ideal for long-term convenience.
3. Permanent Dog License
Valid for the lifetime of the dog. No annual renewals required.
4. Kennel License
Available for owners who keep multiple dogs for breeding or boarding.
Each tag includes a unique ID number that allows animal control to contact you quickly if your dog is found.
How to Apply for a Dog License in Montgomery County
There are several convenient ways to license your dog:
1. Apply Online
The fastest and most convenient option.
- Visit the Montgomery County Auditor’s official dog license portal
- Enter owner and pet information
- Pay using a debit or credit card
- Receive the license tag via mail
2. Apply In Person
You can visit approved locations throughout Montgomery County, including the Auditor’s Office and participating agencies.
3. Apply by Mail
Download the form, complete the details, include payment, and mail it to the Auditor’s Office.
Important: Make sure all details (dog’s name, age, breed, owner address) are correct before submission.
Dog License Fees (General Overview)
Fees may vary by year, but generally include:
- Annual License: Standard rate set by county
- Three Year License: Discounted compared to annual renewals
- Permanent License: One time cost
- Kennel License: Separate structured fee
Fees are set by county ordinance and may change each licensing season.
Single Year Montgomery County Dog License Cost
- Spayed or Neutered Dog: $20
- Unaltered Dog: $24
Three Year Montgomery County Dog License Cost
- Spayed or Neutered Dog: $60
- Unaltered Dog: $72
Permanent Dog License Cost
- Spayed or Neutered Dog: $200
- Unaltered Dog: $240
Should an owner wish to purchase a 3 year license for a dog becoming 3 months of age after July 1st or being brought or purchased from outside the state after July 1st, the cost would be $50 (spayed/neutered) or $60 (un-spayed/un-neutered).
Permanent license costs are unchanged after July 1st. These licenses will be sold exclusively by the Auditor’s Office. Choose carefully, as no refunds will be given.
No proof is required if the dog is spayed or neutered.
Deadlines and Late Fees
Dog licenses must be purchased between December 1 and January 31 each year.
If you fail to license your dog by the deadline, a mandatory late penalty is added. Licensing your dog on time saves money and keeps you legally protected.
Replacement Dog Tags
If your dog’s tag is lost, damaged, or unreadable, you can request a replacement at a small fee through the Auditor’s Office or online.
Updating Owner Information
It is important to update your dog’s license information if:
- You move to a new address
- The dog changes ownership
- Your phone number changes
You can update records online or by contacting the Auditor’s Office.
What Happens if You Do Not License Your Dog?
Failure to license your dog can result in:
- Fines and penalties
- Difficulty proving ownership
- Possible impoundment if your dog is picked up without identification
A valid dog license keeps your pet safe and ensures compliance with Ohio law.
Karl’s Kanines: Montgomery County’s Top Ten Breeds
Top 10 Dog Breeds for 2025 (as of May 16, 2025)
- Number 1: Labrador Retriever (3,109)
- Number 2: Pit Bull (including American Staffordshire, Bull Terrier) (2,883)
- Number 3: German Shepherd (2,060)
- Number 4: Chihuahua (1,574)
- Number 5: Golden Retriever (1,285)
- Number 6: Australian Shepherd (1,430)
- Number 7: Poodle (All sizes) (1,128)
- Number 8: Beagle (1,099)
- Number 9: Shihtzu (1,039)
- Number 10: Boxer (1,017)
- And, our favorite breed, Mixed! (8,698)
List of Ken Licenses “Issued for the Current Year”
List issued by representative department of Montgomery County Auditor (Ohio) office on 11/28/2025. For for more info
List of All Dog Licenses Issued for the Current Year on 11/28/2025. Pls review the official site.
Licensing Outpost Locations
Year Round License Sales
All dogs over the age of three months are required to be licensed. Licenses can be purchased throughout the year at the following locations:
- Auditor’s Office: Lobby of County Administration Building
451 West Third Street
Dayton, OH 45422
Phone: 937-225-4314 - Montgomery County Animal Resource Center
6790 Webster Street
Dayton, OH 45414
Phone: 937-898-4457 - Purchase Online
Outposts (Only Sell During Renewal Season)
The outposts below sell only from December 1, 2025 through January 31, 2026.
Locations North of US-35
- Brubaker Grain: 11597 Upper Lewisburg Salem Rd, Brookville, (937) 833-4128
- Englewood Animal Hospital: 589 S. Main St., (937) 836-9636
- Huber Heights City Hall: 6131 Taylorsville Rd, (937) 233-1423
- Old Troy Pike Vet Clinic: 5201 Old Troy Pike, Dayton (937) 236-4207
Locations South of US-35
- Brubaker Grain: 307 W. Center St, Farmersville, (937) 696-2028
- City of Centerville: 100 W. Spring Valley Rd, (937) 428-4730
- City of Germantown: 1 N. Plum St, Germantown, (937) 855-7255
- Humane Society of Greater Dayton: 1661 Nicholas Road, Dayton, (937) 262-5921
- Kettering Animal Control: 3600 Shroyer Rd, (937) 371-3652 or (937) 296-3266 (call for hours and availability)
- Miami Township: 2700 Lyons Rd, Miamisburg, (937) 433-9969
- City of Moraine: 4200 Dryden Rd, (937) 535-1102
- Oakwood City Offices: 30 Park Ave, (937) 298-0400
- Robyn’s Nest Animal Rescue: 1934B Dayton Germantown Pike, Germantown, (937) 247-9272
- SICSA: 8172 Washington Church Rd, Centerville, (937) 294-6505, ext.13
Conclusion
A dog license is more than a legal requirement in Montgomery County, Ohio, it is a vital protection for your pet. Licensing ensures your dog can be identified quickly, supports animal welfare programs, and helps maintain community safety. Whether you choose an annual, multi-year, or permanent license, staying up-to-date is essential for responsible pet ownership.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When does my dog need a license?
All dogs aged three months or older must be licensed in Montgomery County, Ohio.
2. Do I have to renew the license every year?
If you purchase an annual license, yes. Permanent and three-year licenses do not require yearly renewal.
3. Can I get a refund on a dog license?
No. Dog license fees are non-refundable once issued.
4. What if my dog loses its tag?
You can order a replacement tag through the Auditor’s Office for a small fee.
5. What happens if I move to another county?
Contact the new county’s Auditor or dog licensing office for transfer or re-registration procedures.
6. How do I avoid late fees?
Purchase or renew your dog license between December 1 and January 31 each year.
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