Special category dogs

​Declaration of a special category

If your dog is considered a 'special category dog', you can register it for free.

When you register the dog for the first time, complete the 'Declaration of a special category dog' form. You need to provide proof that your dog is a 'special category' dog from the organisation your dog is registered with.

Post the completed form to:

Animal Administration
Auckland Council
Private Bag 92300
Auckland 1142

You can also:

• email enquiry@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz with your completed form
• bring the completed form to any of our libraries with council services.

Public service dogs

Some special category dogs are usually owned and trained by:

• New Zealand Police
• New Zealand Customs Service
• Department of State
• Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management
• Department of Conservation.

These dogs are trained for the specific purpose of the government agency that owns them.

Disability assist dogs

Disability assist dogs are also special category dogs. They are registered with one of these organisations:

• Assistance Dogs New Zealand Trust
• Hearing Dogs for Deaf People New Zealand
• Pawsible Service Dogs
• Mobility Dogs
• New Zealand Epilepsy Assist Dogs Trust
• Perfect Partners Assistance Dogs Trust
• Blind Low Vision NZ.

If the organisation that registers your dog gives you a registration tag, visit Change your dog-related information to update your dog's details.

No registration fee for special category dogs

There is no registration fee for dogs in the special category.

You still have to register your dog with the council every year to receive a tag.

Exemption from microchipping

Special category dogs are considered working dogs. They do not have to be microchipped.

Civil Defence disability assist tag

If you have a disability assist dog, the organisation that registered the dog will send you an additional tag from the Ministry of Civil Defence.

This tag identifies all disability assist dogs during a civil emergency so they are evacuated to emergency shelters with their owners.

This tag does not replace the registration tag we provide. The dog must wear both tags at all times.

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