Leaving your pet—especially a dog—chained or tethered outside in Washington is a regulated practice, and doing so in violation of specific state laws can be illegal and may result in civil or criminal animal cruelty charges.
Washington’s Pet Chaining and Tethering Laws
Washington state law (RCW 16.52.350) explicitly addresses how and when dogs can be chained or tethered outdoors. It does not ban all outdoor tethering, but it sets clear restrictions to prevent cruelty and neglect:
Duration and Manner: Dogs may not be left tethered for a “reckless period of time,” meaning any period that could pose a risk to the animal’s safety or wellbeing.
Freedom of Movement: The tether must allow the dog to sit, lie down, and stand comfortably and must not be so tight or short that it prevents normal movement. Dogs must not be left in a position where they can become entangled with the tether or with objects, causing distress or injury.
Food, Water, and Shelter: The law requires that tethered dogs have adequate access to food, water, and shelter at all times. Failure to provide these basic necessities is illegal.
Health and Safety Concerns: It is unlawful to tether a dog that is sick, injured, suffering from a debilitating disease, in distress, or under six months old.
Collar Restrictions: Choke, pinch, slip, halter, or prong-type collars may not be used for tethering. Only properly fitted buckle-type collars or harnesses are legal, and they must not impede normal breathing or swallowing.
Penalties for Illegal Chaining
Violating these rules or leaving a pet chained outside in unsafe, unsanitary, or inhumane conditions can result in:
Local Ordinances and Stricter Rules
In addition to state law, many Washington cities and counties have enacted local ordinances that may be even stricter, including outright bans on unattended outdoor pet chaining or limits during severe weather (extreme heat, cold, wind, rain, or snow). Always check your local codes for additional requirements or prohibitions.
Animal Cruelty and Reporting
Knowingly leaving a pet chained outside in violation of the law, or in conditions that constitute cruelty (such as exposure to hazardous weather, lack of shelter, or physical harm), can result in misdemeanor or felony charges. Anyone who observes a pet left in dangerous tethering situations is encouraged to report it to animal control or local authorities for immediate intervention.
Key Takeaways
It is illegal in Washington to leave your pet chained outside in any way that’s unsafe, reckless, prevents access to necessities, or causes harm.
Tethering must be temporary, humane, and comply with specific state law requirements. Severe or repeated violations can result in heavy fines and criminal penalties.
Local ordinances may add even stricter rules—always be aware of the regulations in your community.
If you witness animal neglect or cruelty related to chaining, report it to authorities.
By adhering to these regulations, Washington aims to ensure the humane treatment and wellbeing of all pets in the state.
Sources
[1] https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=16.52.350
[2] https://www.spokesman.com/stories/2017/apr/19/new-bill-signed-into-law-protecting-tethered-dogs/
[3] https://katu.com/news/local/new-washington-bill-signed-into-law-protecting-tethered-dogs
[4] https://dogtime.com/reference/106622-washington-animal-cruelty-law-dog-chain
[5] https://mrsc.org/explore-topics/public-safety/animal-control/comprehensive-animal-control-regulations
