Is It Illegal to Leave Your Pet Chained Outside in Idaho? Here's What the Law Says

In Idaho, the laws regarding chaining or tethering dogs outside vary by city and county, as there is no statewide law specifically addressing this issue. However, several municipalities in Idaho have implemented regulations on tethering pets. Here’s an overview of some local laws in Idaho:

Gooding, Idaho

Gooding has specific regulations on tethering dogs:

The tether must be at least 10 feet in length
It cannot weigh more than 20% of the dog’s body weight
For pulley systems, the dog must be able to move at least 12 feet
Tethering is limited to no more than 14 hours in a 24-hour period
Prong, pinch, or choke collars are prohibited for unattended tethering

Star, Idaho

Star has implemented the following rules:

Dog tethers must be at least three times the length of the dog (measured from nose to tail base)
No animal may be continuously tethered for more than 12 hours in any 24-hour period
Choke collars are prohibited for tethering
The tethering area must be free of hazardous materials

Idaho Falls

While Idaho Falls doesn’t have specific tethering laws, it defines restraint as:

Confinement within a structure or fenced yard
Secured by a leash, lead, or chain

General Considerations

Although not all cities in Idaho have specific tethering laws, many have animal cruelty regulations that could apply to improper tethering. For example:

In Georgetown, chains or tethers must have swivels on both ends and be attached to properly fitted collars or harnesses
Choke chains and pinch collars are prohibited for tethering
Tethers must allow the dog to move freely and access shelter and water

It’s important to note that while some cities allow tethering under certain conditions, it’s generally considered best practice to provide dogs with a secure, fenced area or supervised time outdoors rather than leaving them chained for extended periods.

If you’re concerned about a pet’s welfare or unsure about local regulations, it’s best to contact your local animal control or law enforcement agency for specific guidelines in your area.

Sources: