Delaware has specific laws regulating the tethering of dogs outside, aimed at protecting animal welfare. While it’s not entirely illegal to tether a dog outdoors, there are strict regulations that pet owners must follow:
Time Restrictions
- Dogs cannot be tethered outside for more than 9 consecutive hours while the owner or a responsible adult is home.
- When the owner or a responsible adult is not home, dogs cannot be tethered for more than 2 hours.
- Dogs cannot be left outside unattended for more than 15 minutes during extreme weather conditions.
Tethering Requirements
- The tether must be at least 10 feet long.
- Tethers cannot be attached to choke, pinch, prong, or martingale collars.
- The tether must allow the dog easy access to shelter, food, and water.
- Tethers must be designed to prevent entanglement with other objects or dogs.
Age and Health Restrictions
- Dogs less than four months old cannot be tethered.
- Nursing mothers cannot be tethered while puppies are present.
Weather Considerations
- Dogs cannot be left outside unattended during National Weather Service hazardous weather advisories or warnings.
- Between November 1 and March 31, or when temperatures drop below 35°F, additional bedding and a windbreak at the shelter entrance are required.
Shelter Requirements
Tethered dogs must have access to a shelter that is:
- Structurally sound with no sharp edges
- Moisture-proof and windproof
- Raised above the ground
- Properly sized for the dog
- Equipped with clean, dry bedding
Additional Provisions
- Fresh drinking water must be available at all times.
- Food must be provided at least once a day and be wholesome and free from contamination.
- The dog’s environment must be clean and sanitary.
- Separate shade areas must be provided in addition to the shelter.
Penalties
Failure to comply with these laws can result in:
- Civil penalties
- Fines
- Removal of the animal
- Potential criminal prosecution for animal cruelty
Recent Changes
As of February 21, 2025, Delaware has recently strengthened its tethering laws. The maximum tethering time has been reduced from 18 hours to 9 hours, making it easier for authorities to enforce and improving animal welfare.
While tethering dogs outside is not entirely illegal in Delaware, the state has implemented comprehensive regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of tethered animals. Pet owners must be aware of these laws and provide appropriate care, shelter, and attention to their dogs when tethering them outdoors.
The recent changes reflect a growing concern for animal welfare and a commitment to protecting pets from neglect or harsh conditions.
SOURCES:-
[1] https://whyy.org/articles/new-delaware-law-aims-to-reduce-length-of-time-dogs-can-be-tethered-outside/
[2] https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/delaware/
[3] https://animalservices.zeuslogic.com/getFile?path=attachments&file=619d203c6d9ff_Delaware-Dog-Laws-2020_Final-1.pdf
[4] https://legis.delaware.gov/SessionLaws?volume=82&chapter=238
