It is not outright illegal to leave your pet dog chained or tethered outside in Delaware, but the state has strict regulations designed to protect animal welfare. These rules set clear limits on how long and under what conditions a dog can be tied up outdoors, and violations can result in significant fines.
Time Limits and Supervision
Unattended Tethering:
If no one is home, a dog may only be left chained or tethered outside for a maximum of two hours at a time. This is to ensure that dogs are not left alone for extended periods without supervision.
Total Daily Limit:
Even if the owner is present, a dog cannot be tethered outside for more than nine hours within a 24-hour period. This is a reduction from the previous 18-hour limit, reflecting growing concern for animal welfare.
Weather Restrictions
During periods of extreme heat or cold—specifically when the National Weather Service issues an advisory or emergency—dogs can only be left outside for 15 minutes. This rule is enforced to prevent harm during dangerous weather conditions, regardless of whether the owner is present.
Shelter, Tether, and Care Requirements
Delaware law requires that:
1. The tether must be at least 10 feet long and allow the dog convenient access to a dog house, food, and water containers.
2. Dog houses must not have wire flooring or be made of metal, and must provide adequate protection from the elements.
3. The tether must be attached in a way that prevents the dog from becoming entangled or coming into contact with other dogs.
4. The collar must be well-fitted and not cause trauma or injury.
Penalties for Violations
Violating Delaware’s tethering laws can result in:
A $100 fine for the first offense,
$250 for the second offense,
$500 for each subsequent violation, plus court costs.
Local Ordinances
Some Delaware towns, such as Smyrna, have even stricter rules. For example, Smyrna prohibits tethering a dog outside for more than six consecutive hours without direct physical contact from the owner and bans tethering during extreme weather events.
Animal Welfare Rationale
These laws are intended to prevent neglect and protect dogs from the physical and psychological harm associated with long-term or unsafe tethering, especially during extreme weather.
While it is not completely illegal to chain your dog outside in Delaware, there are strict time limits, weather-related restrictions, and care requirements. Pet owners must comply with these laws or risk substantial fines and penalties. Always check for local ordinances, as some communities may have even stricter rules in place
Sources
[1] https://mywaynecountynow.com/is-it-illegal-to-leave-your-pet-chained-outside-in-delaware-heres-what-the-law-says/
[2] https://whyy.org/articles/new-delaware-law-sets-time-limit-on-keeping-dogs-tied-up-outside/
[3] https://whyy.org/articles/new-delaware-law-aims-to-reduce-length-of-time-dogs-can-be-tethered-outside/
[4] https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/delaware/
[5] https://www.animallaw.info/statute/de-tether-dog-chapter-9-dogs
