Dog Information

Dog with head out of the window

All dogs must be registered and microchipped once they reach 3 months of age.

Registration

The registered owner of a dog must be at least 18 years old.

You can submit a registration form by email, or by popping into the Shire administration building and providing paperwork and payable fees.

  • Fees are located on the second page of the Registration Form
  • The Shire will notify you in October annually of expired registrations.

Dog Registration Form

Dog Registration Fees

Unsterilised Dog/Bitch

$50 (1 Year)

$120 (3 Years)

$250 (Lifetime)

Sterilised Dog/Bitch

$20 (1 Year)

$42.50 (3 Years)

$100 (Lifetime)

Guide Dog (GD) 

No Fees Payable

Concessions Pensioner (P)

1 /2 of Registration Fee

Stock Dog (ST)

1 /4 of Registration Fee

We love dogs in the Shire of Capel, and we want to ensure they’re happy, healthy, and safe—while also being great neighbours! Here’s what you need to know about owning a dog in our community.

Dangerous Dogs

If your dog has been declared dangerous, there are special rules to follow to keep everyone safe.

  • Registration is only valid for one year at a time, and an inspection is required when registering.
  • No concessions are available for dangerous dog registrations.
  • Owners must follow these key rules:
    • A muzzle must be worn in public.
    • Your dog must be securely contained at home with no gaps larger than 2cm.

Additional requirements may apply, as advised by Shire Rangers.

Being a Responsible Dog Owner

To make sure your dog is safe and happy, please:

  • Keep your dog securely contained on your property.
  • Make sure your dog’s registration and microchip details are always up to date.
  • Prevent excessive barking that might disturb your neighbours.
  • Always supervise young children around dogs.
  • Keep your dog on a leash and under control when in public.
  • Consider using a muzzle if your dog is nervous around people or other dogs.
  • Train and socialise your dog to ensure good behaviour.
  • Take your dog for regular walks and exercise.
  • Need extra help? Reach out to an approved dog trainer.

How Many Dogs Can You Have?

  • You can keep up to two dogs without a permit.
  • Want to keep more than two? You’ll need to apply for a special permit.

Apply for a permit to keep extra dogs HERE

Dealing with Barking Dogs

Barking is natural, but excessive barking can be disruptive.

  • If a dog barks too much for too long, it’s considered a nuisance.
  • Common reasons for excessive barking include:
    • Excitement or boredom
    • Separation anxiety
    • Feeling threatened
    • Protecting their home or family

How to handle it:

  • A friendly chat with your neighbour often solves the issue.
  • If you're not comfortable discussing it, you can report the barking to the Rangers for investigation.
  • The sooner you address nuisance barking, the easier it is to fix.
  • The RSPCA has great tips for managing barking.

Check out RSPCA advice on barking RSPCA website

Need help? Contact the Shire Rangers.

Lost & Impounded Dogs

If your dog goes missing, check here to see if it’s been found:

View impounded dogs Impounded Pets

Dog Parks in the Shire

We have plenty of parks where your dog can run and play! But remember, your dog must always

be under effective control.

This means:

  • Responding to your commands.
  • Not jumping on people or other dogs.
  • Showing no signs of aggression.
  • Being able to be restrained if needed.
  • Staying within your sight at all times.
  • Not visiting if they might have parvovirus.

Find a Dog Exercise Area

Places Where Dogs Are Not Allowed

For the safety and comfort of everyone, dogs cannot go into:

  • Cemeteries
  • Children’s playgrounds
  • The Shire Depot
  • National parks
  • Public buildings

Visiting the Waste Transfer Station?

Dogs must stay inside your vehicle at all times while at the Waste Transfer Station.

For more information or assistance, feel free to contact the Shire Rangers. We're here to help you and your four-legged friends!