In Maryland, it is generally illegal to leave your pet chained outside unattended under certain conditions, as regulated by state law. The Maryland Criminal Law Code (§ 10-623) specifically addresses the use of restraints such as chains, ropes, or tethers on dogs and includes safeguards for their welfare.
Key Legal Points About Chaining Pets in Maryland
A person may not leave a dog outside and unattended using a restraint that unreasonably limits the dog’s movement.
The law requires that dogs must have access to suitable shelter when tethered outdoors during extreme weather conditions like cold (below 32°F) or heat (above 90°F).
Suitable shelter means a structure that keeps the dog dry, protected from weather, properly ventilated, and allows the dog to maintain its normal body temperature.
Maryland law prohibits chaining a dog without continuous access to shelter, shade, and water.
The restraint must not be so short or heavy that it jeopardizes the dog’s health or safety, and it should allow the dog a reasonable amount of movement (typically the tether length must be several times the length of the dog).
Dogs may not be tethered for extended periods, especially if unattended, as this causes physical and psychological harm.
Local County Ordinances and Penalties
Some counties, such as Anne Arundel County, have stricter rules requiring that dogs can only be tethered outdoors if someone aged 13 or older is outside, with a direct line of sight to the dog at all times while tethered. Temperatures below 32°F or above 90°F prohibit outdoor tethering altogether in these areas.
Violations of these laws can result in fines, warnings, impoundment of the dog, or in repeated or severe cases, loss of ownership rights. The penalties escalate depending on the severity and number of offenses.
Rationale Behind the Law
The reason for these restrictions is grounded in animal welfare. Chaining or tethering dogs excessively can lead to:
Physical injuries such as raw neck wounds from collars
Exposure to dangerous weather conditions
Psychological stress, anxiety, and aggression due to isolation and immobility
Animals kept chained for long periods suffer from diminished well-being and face heightened risks of harm from other animals or humans.
Maryland law prohibits leaving a dog chained outside unattended for long periods without access to shelter, shade, and water. The tether must be of reasonable length and weight, and the dog should not be exposed to extreme weather. These regulations reflect a commitment to ensuring the safety, health, and humane treatment of pets in the state. It is advisable for pet owners in Maryland to follow these guidelines strictly to avoid legal consequences and protect their pets’ welfare.
Sources
(https://www.animallaw.info/topic/table-state-dog-tether-laws)
(https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/maryland/)
(https://greenbaycrimereports.com/is-it-illegal-to-leave-your-pet-chained-outside-in-maryland-heres-what-the-law-says/)
(https://www.animallaw.info/content/map-state-dog-tethering-laws)
(https://www.mhlawyers.com/blog/marylands-2025-legislators-pass-criminal-civil-penalties-regulations-to-protect-furry-and-feathery-friends-and-family)
