Licensing a dog in Detroit
Michigan leaves licensing to counties and cities, and Detroit runs its own program.
License basics
The city licensing details lists fees of $10 for an altered dog and $15 for an unaltered one, requires proof that the dog is currently vaccinated against rabies, and says licenses are not transferable between people or dogs. The Detroit dog licensing page adds that a rabies vaccine must be given by a veterinarian and that licenses are not issued when fewer than 31 days remain until the vaccine expires.
Renewal
The Detroit Animal Care FAQ says residents must renew the license every year even if the dog has a three-year rabies vaccine, and that a license serves as proof of ownership and of rabies vaccination.
| Item | What the city says | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Altered dog | $10 | Detroit Animal Care |
| Unaltered dog | $15 | Detroit Animal Care |
| Rabies proof | Vet-issued certificate | Detroit licensing page |
| Renewal | Every year | Detroit FAQ |
Leash rules
a news explainer on Detroit leash rules reports that Michigan's Dog Law of 1919 and city ordinances require dogs six months and older to be leashed on public property, and quotes a Detroit-area ordinance with a six-foot leash limit. Confirm the current wording with the city before relying on it.
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