In Colorado, leaving your pet chained or tethered outside is not outright illegal, but it is regulated to protect animals from neglect and abuse. The law permits chaining or tethering a dog outdoors under specific conditions meant to ensure the animal’s welfare, so pet owners must comply with these to avoid legal consequences.
Colorado does not have a statewide statute that entirely bans chaining pets, but the practice is restricted based on the duration, the type of tether, and the conditions the animal is exposed to. For example, animals must have access to adequate shelter, food, water, and cannot be chained in a way that causes injury, suffering, or endangers their health. Excessive chaining or tethering that results in neglect or cruelty could lead to charges under animal cruelty laws.
Local ordinances may impose more detailed rules on chaining or tethering pets outside. Many municipalities require that temporary tethering only be for a reasonable period and prohibit using heavy chains or unsafe restraints. They also prohibit leaving pets unattended on tethers in extreme weather conditions like extreme heat, cold, or storms without appropriate protections. Compliance with these local laws helps prevent animal welfare violations and potential misdemeanor offenses.
Recent legislative attention in Colorado has focused strongly on improving animal welfare. For instance, new laws set to take effect in 2025 address the sale and treatment of pets but also underscore a growing emphasis on the humane treatment of animals. Though these laws do not specifically outlaw chaining outright, they reinforce protections by prohibiting cruel treatment and requiring proper animal care standards.
Violation of laws related to chaining or tethering that results in animal suffering could be prosecuted under the state’s animal cruelty statutes, which can carry penalties ranging from misdemeanors to felonies depending on the severity and circumstances. Owners who chain their pets outside must ensure animals are not exposed to neglectful conditions and must provide proper shelter, food, and water at all times.
It is not illegal in Colorado to leave pets chained outside as long as the practice does not violate animal cruelty protections or local ordinances designed to prevent neglect. Owners must provide adequate shelter and care to ensure the animal’s well-being while tethered. Pet chaining that causes harm, exposes the animal to extreme weather, or results in suffering may lead to criminal charges. Always check specific local laws as city or county rules may have additional restrictions beyond state requirements, and stay informed about new animal welfare legislation aimed at safeguarding pets in Colorado.
Responsible and humane treatment is essential to comply with Colorado’s legal landscape regarding chained or tethered pets.
Sources
[1] https://www.fremonthumane.com/articles/new-pet-laws-in-colorado/
[2] https://www.animallaw.info/topic/table-state-dog-tether-laws
[3] https://www.hemlane.com/resources/colorado-pet-rent-laws/
[4] https://collincountymagazine.com/2025/08/02/is-it-illegal-to-leave-your-pet-chained-outside-in-colorado-heres-what-the-law-says/
[5] https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb25-1207
