Time is running out for dog owners to take advantage of the discounted registration fee.

Unless a dog is sporting a red 2018 tag, it is now unregistered, according to Tauranga City Council.

If it is not registered by July 31, the normal registration fee will increase to $115 (currently $82), or $172.50 (currently $123) for dogs classified as dangerous.

Although 5,779 dogs, or 45 per cent, remain unregistered to date, the council always gets a big rush of registrations over the last week of July.

'Registration fees pay for most of Tauranga's animal services activities, which essentially helps us create a safe and enjoyable environment for dogs, dog owners and the wider community,” says animal services team leader Brett Lincoln.

Any dog unregistered after July 31 will also face the risk of a $300 infringement fine.

Dog owners have a number of ways to pay, including online through internet banking option POLi (no surcharge fee). All owners who pay online using POLi, before July 31 will also go into the draw to win a prize.