Dog tags are the unofficial name for the ID tags that have to be worn by all military personnel at all times. The metal tags are rectangular and resemble tags used by dog owners for their pets, hence the name “dog tags”. Many guys who are not in the military and ones who have retired from service enjoy wearing custom dog tags for men.

Most military dog tags are made from metal that is rust resistant, such as stainless steel or aluminum. The information stamped on them contains identification information for the soldier such as name, rank, company, and serial number. Crucial medical information regarding the soldier is also on the tag. Most of the time, two tags are worn so that in case of death or severe injury, one tag can stay with the person and one can be detached and used by medical personnel and other military personnel. One tag is worn on a long chain around the neck, and the second tag is attached to the first chain with a shorter chain that can be removed easily.
Custom dog tags for men that are worn by civilians for enjoyment purposes can be made of any type of material, but stainless steel dog tags seem to be the most popular. Black plated stainless steel is also a very popular choice. Gold and silver custom dog tags are also common but will come with an added cost. Prices for stainless steel tags are usually in the $10-$20 range. Dog tag silencers, or rubber rims that are stretched around the perimeter of the tags to keep them from making noise as they bump together, are sometimes included in the price, also.

Most jewelry stores that sell dog tags for men will engrave the tags for you. Some will engrave initials for free, but most charge a small fee, usually $10-$15 for engraving and sometimes designs on both the front and back of the tag. Chains are sometimes included with those tags, but you may have to purchase the chain separately.
Personalized dog tags for men make very nice gifts and can be customized in an infinite number of ways. Most men will prefer that the tags are simple and look masculine, so too much engraving, stamping or flowery images that women may be tempted to customize them with should be used very sparingly. Sometimes initials and a small artistic image or date of a special event are all that is needed to customize a set of dog tags that will become a treasured heirloom for the man to whom they are given.