You know we like the Mendota Slip Lead, which doesn't connect to a collar, but for safety we recommend that dogs always wear a collar with ID tags.
While some collars have the ID information written on or sewed into the fabric, I find that I'm more likely to pull over and try to grab a dog whose tag I can see dangling so I recommend getting one of those. There is no need for your dog to have a rabies tag on so then the tag won't make any noise.
My tag reads:
“H” or Kaough
Call or text
Phone 1
Phone 2
Needs daily meds
I don't have my dog's name on her ID tag because if someone picks her up and tries to pass her off as their own, I want the vet to tell that she is confused and I want the name they give the vet to not match the name in her microchip. You can put an initial or you can put your last name instead of your dog's name.
I put two phone numbers, mine and a friend who is likely to answer their phone if a strange number calls. Ideally you have the number of the person your dog is staying with or someone local if you are out of town and not that of the person you are traveling with. Tags are cheap! Get a few.
I write "Call or text" just in case me or my friend doesn't answer. It goes without saying these days the number is most likely a cell, but it's worth adding that line to remind someone in that high intensity moment of finding a dog that text is a good option for reaching the owner.
I also write "needs daily meds" on the tag. If it's two sided, put this on the front where a name would go. Again, since my dog is so cute and I worry about someone finding and keeping her, this phrase is there to help encourage anyone who finds her to get her home.
I hope these tips help you make your tag as effective as possible at it's true job - getting your dog back to you if they get lost!