U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

dog on a leash

Annual Dog License

Animal Commission

State law requires that all dogs over 6 months have a current dog license. The dog license period in Cambridge runs from April 1 of current year to March 31 of following year. Cambridge residents can apply for a dog’s license online. Alternatively, paper copies are also available at the Animal Control Office or can be downloaded here

If you are an existing dog owner trying to renew your record, please note you will receive an email in the month of FEBRUARY with renewal information. If you did not receive an email, please email or call the office at (617) 349-4376.

The fee for a dog license for a spayed/neutered dog is $20, or $30 for a dog that is not spayed or neutered. Dog licenses are renewed annually. The fine for an unlicensed dog is $50.

In order to obtain a dog license, owners must provide proof of Cambridge residency and have a current rabies vaccination. See full list of requirements in FAQs below. Dogs can be vaccinated at the veterinarian’s office, at clinics held at some pet stores, or low cost clinics held periodically.

NOTICE: The Animal Control Office is now open to members of the public to: obtain a dog license, answer other regulatory questions, or provide general assistance. Appointments can also be made on Tuesdays and Thursdays online, by phone at 617-349-4376, or by email at animalcommission@cambridgema.gov. Appointments will be scheduled in 30-minute increments. If you miss your appointment, you will have to reschedule for another day.

Additional Information

For date and location of the next low-cost Rabies Vaccination Clinic, at which licensing is also available, please contact Cambridge Animal Commission at 617-349-4376 or animalcommission@cambridgema.gov. Generally, microchipping is also available at these clinics for a fee.

Dog licenses can be a ticket home if your dog becomes lost; the number on the tag can be traced back to the owner for a safe return.


Page was last modified on 4/3/2025 11:41 AM
Contact Us

How can we help?

Please provide as much detail below as possible so City staff can respond to your inquiry:

As a governmental entity, the Massachusetts Public Records Law applies to records made or received by the City. Any information received through use of this site is subject to the same provisions as information provided on paper.

Read our complete privacy statement


Service Requests

Enter a service request via SeeClickFix for things like missed trash pickups, potholes, etc.