Wisconsin law does not outright ban chaining or tethering dogs outside, but there are strict rules designed to protect the welfare of pets. Here’s what you need to know:
Key State Requirements
Tether Length and Safety: The tether must be at least 6 feet long (or longer, depending on the dog’s size) and must allow the dog to move freely, lie down, and access shelter, food, and water. The tether must not become entangled or cause injury, and it must have an anchor swivel to prevent twisting.
Collar or Harness: The tether must be attached to a properly fitted, non-tightening collar or harness. Choke, prong, or pinch collars are not allowed for tethering.
Health and Age Restrictions: You cannot tether a dog that is pregnant, nursing, sick, or under five months old.
Weather Conditions: Tethering is not allowed during extreme weather (very hot, cold, or during storms) or when hazardous weather advisories are issued. Dogs must always have access to adequate shelter.
Time Limits: While state law does not set a specific maximum number of hours for tethering, some local ordinances (like in Linn and Racine) limit tethering to 10–12 hours per day.
Supervision: A responsible person must be present on or near the property while the dog is tethered.
No Tethering on Vacant Properties: Dogs cannot be left tethered on vacant or uninhabited properties.
No Trespassing: The tether must not allow the dog to trespass onto neighboring properties or public areas.
Animal Cruelty and Neglect
Deprivation of Basic Needs: It is illegal to deprive a dog of necessary food, water, shelter, exercise, or veterinary care. Leaving a dog chained outside in a way that causes suffering or endangers its health can be prosecuted as animal cruelty, which is a misdemeanor or, in severe cases, a felony in Wisconsin.
Local Ordinances
Some cities and counties in Wisconsin have stricter rules than state law, including shorter maximum tethering times and additional requirements for tether length and collar type. Always check your local ordinances for specific regulations in your area.
Penalties
Violations may result in fines, civil penalties, or misdemeanor charges. Aggravated cases of animal cruelty can lead to felony charges, especially if the animal suffers significant harm.
Wisconsin Dog Tethering Laws
| Requirement | State Law | Local Ordinance Example |
|---|---|---|
| Tether length | ≥ 6 feet | ≥ 10 feet (some cities) |
| Collar type | Non-tightening | No choke/prong collars |
| Max tethering time | Not specified | 10–12 hours/24h (some cities) |
| Weather restrictions | Yes | Yes |
| Pregnant/nursing/sick/puppy | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| Supervision required | Yes | Yes |
If you see a pet being chained in a way that appears cruel or unsafe, you can contact local animal control or law enforcement for investigation.
Sources:
- https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/administrativecode/ATCP%2016.24(4)(a)
- https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/administrativecode/ATCP%2016.26(1)(g)2.
- https://dogtime.com/reference/106996-wisconsin-dog-laws-2023-rabies-dog-bites-dog-cruelty-and-dog-chains
