Do you have the proper identification for your new dog?

After adopting a dog from a New York animal shelter, you may have a mile-long list of preparations to make before your companion comes into your home for the first time. Along with leashes, collars and pet beds, one of the most important investments you'll make is purchasing canine identification tags. These products are surefire ways to have your furry friend returned to you in the event that he or she becomes lost, but not all of them are created equal. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when you're picking up your dog's first dog ID tags.

1. Get your dog registered! Establishing yourself as a legal pet parent to your dog is an important step to take after adoption, but it can also come in handy if your pooch ever becomes lost, reports FoundAnimals.org. If your dog is picked up by animal control or a concerned citizen, this could expedite the process of locating you and getting your canine home.

2. Always provide names and phone numbers. When you're at the pet store picking out the perfect dog ID tags, be sure to include both your dog's name and your phone number on the tag itself, reports PupLife.com. Ideally, the best phone number to choose is your cell phone, as this will be on you at all times and will increase the chances of animal control or a fellow resident contacting you after your dog has gotten lost.

3. Microchips? One of the greatest advances in dog identification technology over the past several decades is the microchip. According to 24PetWatch.com, this small transmitter is painlessly implanted underneath your dog's skin and contains a unique identification number that will be put into a central database. The chips can only be activated with a special scanner, which will allow animal control or veterinarians to be able to locate you no matter where your dog may have gone. Consider making an appointment at a Bideawee Animal Hospital to talk about one of these fabulous microchips so you can know where your four-legged friend is at all times.

The right dog ID tag can mean the difference between losing your dog and having him or her back safe and sound, so make it one of your top priorities after adoption. Best of all, with all the new styles and colors to choose from, you can find one that matches your companion's personality.