The above GSD Helpline members are certified microchip implanters. They have agreed to provide this service as part of the Helpline and it is available to anyone living in their areas and/or to any clubs wishing to provide the service at their training nights or shows as well as to breeders who may choose to micro chip their pups as opposed/ complimentary to any other type of ID. The cost of micro chipping varies from £15 at certain subsidised clinics to £30+ at some vet surgeries.

Microchip Implantation:

The microchip can be read using any of the readers on the market and is generally considered to be the preferred method of ID because of its permanence and ease of application. Micro chipping is required as part of the Pet Passport system for those wishing to take their animals out of the country.
The microchips contain a unique ID number assigned to the transponder (the capsule which contains the chip). They measure approximately 11.5mm making them one of the smallest and most competitive chips on the market.
Numerous independent trials have shown that the large transponder size is the principal indicator of migration, breakage, and abscess formation. Independent comparative tests involving large and small implantable transponders show that micro transponders (those measuring 12mm in length or less) is least prone to migration and breakage.
All microchips are registered for life with Pet Log Registration and include an ID tag (cost included in the price of the implant). Pet Log’s service includes a 24 hour service/ 7 days per week including affiliation with every vet, animal shelter, police force and Local Authority in the country ensuring the best possible chance of the animal being returned to the owner should it become lost or stolen. Pet Log will inform both owner and breeder of any animal micro chipped by the breeder who comes to their attention. Additional information such as any special medication the animal may require, tattoo numbers etc. can also be recorded with the Pet Log scheme at no extra charge.
Puppies can be micro chipped from the age of 6 weeks old, thus allowing breeders to chip their litters prior to sale.

The Government's Dog Identification Working Party is about to publish a report recommending voluntary and then compulsory identification within 5 years. According to the report a disturbing 17000 dogs were destroyed in the UK last year.
It makes good sense to Identify your dog and to do it sooner rather than later!!

See also http://www.gsdhelpline.com/aboutchip.htm