Leaving pets chained or tethered outside for extended periods can raise serious concerns about welfare and legality. Nevada law regulates this practice with specific requirements designed to prevent cruelty. Here’s what you must know as a pet owner in 2025.
Statewide Pet Tethering Laws
Nevada prohibits inhumane and unsafe tethering of dogs:
You cannot restrain a dog outside for more than 14 hours in a 24-hour period statewide.
The tether, chain, or rope must be at least 12 feet long and allow the dog to move freely for at least 12 feet. Pulley systems must let the dog move at least a total of 12 feet.
Prong, pinch, and choke collars or similar restraints are illegal for tethering.
It is illegal to tether a dog where it could get entangled, injured, or strangled (such as where the chain allows a dog to jump a fence).
Failure to obey these rules can result in charges of animal cruelty or neglect, which come with fines and possible criminal penalties.
Local Ordinances: Stricter Rulings in Cities
Some Nevada cities, especially Las Vegas and North Las Vegas, have stricter rules than the state law:
In Las Vegas and North Las Vegas, it is illegal to tether or chain a dog outside for more than 10 hours during any 24-hour period.
If the National Weather Service issues a heat advisory, or during extreme heat (105°F+), it is illegal to leave a pet chained outside at all.
Pets must have access to shade, water, and—during heat over 105°F—mechanical cooling (such as misters or portable AC).
Penalties for violation include fines, animal removal, and possible bans on future pet ownership for repeat offenders.
Exceptions to the Law
State law and city ordinances make exceptions for:
Why These Laws Exist
Nevada’s laws aim to prevent cruelty and promote animal welfare. Chained pets face risks of dehydration, heatstroke, injury, and even death in extreme weather. Laws were strengthened after high-profile cases of pets dying when left outside in hot conditions.
Practical Tips for Pet Owners
Never tether your dog for prolonged periods or use banned collars or short chains.
Provide shelter, shade, and water at all times.
In hot weather, bring pets indoors or supply cooling devices as required by law.
It is illegal in Nevada to leave your dog chained outside for more than 14 hours statewide or more than 10 hours in many cities like Las Vegas. Tethers must be 12 feet or longer, and banned collars are never allowed. With strict penalties and a growing push for responsible pet ownership, Nevada pet owners must stay informed—and always put animal welfare first.
Sources
[1] https://www.animallaw.info/topic/table-state-dog-tether-laws
[2] https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/nevada/
[3] https://law.justia.com/codes/nevada/2010/title50/chapter574/nrs574-100.html
[4] https://www.shouselaw.com/nv/defense/laws/animal-abuse/
[5] https://accidentlawyerhenderson.com/recent-changes-to-nevada-pet-law/
