Pennsylvania’s 2026 dog licensing effort kicks off today in Montgomery County, where Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding will join with local officials, dog owners, and young canine athletes to encourage residents to purchase their annual dog licenses before the new year.
The event, held at Orchard Hills Training Center in Barto, will underscore the importance of dog licensing as both a legal obligation and a key safeguard for pets and communities.
The event will showcase the type of community partnership state officials say is vital to improving dog safety across the Commonwealth. Since taking office, Governor Josh Shapiro has strengthened Pennsylvania’s Dog Law, expanded protections for animals in kennels and shelters, and increased efforts to prevent dangerous dog incidents.
Licenses are required annually for all dogs three months and older. State officials said that renewing early helps ensure uninterrupted protection and supports the work of the Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement, which relies largely on license revenue for operations.
Today’s event marks the start of a statewide campaign encouraging all dog owners to purchase or renew licenses ahead of the 2026 deadline. Licenses can be obtained through county treasurers or online, depending on county availability.
Source: pa.gov