Dog owners in Washington state now have new rules to follow when it comes to keeping their dogs tied up outside. A new law was signed by Governor Jay Inslee that makes it illegal to tether dogs in ways that could hurt them or put their health at risk.
This law aims to protect dogs from being tied up too long, without food, water, shelter, or safety from extreme weather.
Many dog lovers and animal shelters have welcomed this law, saying it’s a big step forward in preventing animal cruelty.
What Does the New Washington Dog Tethering Law Say?
In the past, Washington didn’t have clear penalties for leaving dogs tied up outside in a harmful way. That has now changed. The new law makes it illegal to leave a dog tied up for an unsafe or reckless amount of time—especially if the dog does not have enough food, clean water, or shelter.
Dogs Must Be Kept in Safe Conditions
The law requires that dogs must be kept in a clean, safe place that protects them from heat, cold, and rain. If your dog is left outside on a chain or rope, it must be able to move around freely—meaning the tether can’t be too heavy, too short, or placed in a way that stops the dog from sitting, standing, or lying down comfortably.
Animal control officers now have the right to issue warnings or fines if a dog is found in poor tethering conditions. This is meant to stop dogs from getting hurt while tied up.
Why Was This Law Passed?
Animal rights groups and shelters pushed for this law after seeing many dogs suffer from unsafe chaining. Some dogs were left tied up with very heavy chains, short ropes, or in bad weather without shelter. Others became tangled in their tethers, leading to injuries like cuts, broken bones, or even death by choking.
One heartbreaking example was a dog named Sadie, who had a chain collar embedded so deep in her neck it caused serious injury. Thankfully, Sadie and her 10 puppies were rescued and fully recovered. Cases like hers were the reason lawmakers took action.
Unsafe Collars Are Not Allowed
The law also highlights the dangers of certain collars. Animal advocates have asked for a ban on using choke chains, prong collars, or halter-type collars when tying up dogs. These collars can cause serious pain and injury—especially when a dog pulls or gets stuck.
While the law strongly discourages their use, pet owners are urged to switch to safer options like buckle-style collars or harnesses.
What If You’ve Always Tied Your Dog Outside?
Some people say they’ve always kept their dogs tied outside, especially if they don’t have a fenced yard. While this law doesn’t ban tethering completely, it now requires that dogs be kept in a way that doesn’t hurt them or put their safety at risk.
If you still need to tether your dog, you must follow the law: give them shelter, clean water, and a safe space to move around.
What Happens If You Break the Law?
If you tie up your dog in an unsafe way, animal control officers can now step in. They may give you a warning or a civil fine (which means a penalty you have to pay). In serious cases of neglect or injury, there could be stronger legal consequences under Washington’s animal cruelty laws.
In Washington, you are no longer allowed to leave your dog tied up outside in unsafe or harmful conditions. The law makes sure dogs have the basic things they need—food, water, shelter, and space to move around. It’s not about banning tethering altogether but about making sure it’s done responsibly and humanely.
If you’re a dog owner, this is your chance to do the right thing and make sure your pet is safe, comfortable, and well cared for—even when they’re outside.
