Indiana law does not outright ban tethering or chaining dogs outside, but it does impose strict regulations to protect animal welfare. Both state statutes and local ordinances set clear requirements for how, when, and under what conditions a pet can be tethered outdoors. Violating these rules can result in criminal charges, fines, or even loss of pet ownership.
Indiana State Law on Tethering
Indiana’s animal cruelty statutes define “neglect” to include restraining an animal for more than a brief period in a manner that endangers the animal’s life or health. Specifically, it is illegal to restrain a pet:
- With a rope, chain, or tether that is less than three times the length of the animal.
- With a tether that is too heavy for the animal to move freely.
- In a way that causes choking or otherwise seriously endangers the animal’s life or health.
Additionally, it is considered neglect to leave a dog or cat outside and exposed to excessive heat without providing adequate shade, or in extreme cold without proper shelter.
Local Ordinances: Indianapolis and Marion County
Many Indiana cities, including Indianapolis and Fort Wayne, have additional tethering laws that are more specific and restrictive than the state statutes.
Indianapolis and Marion County:
- It is unlawful to tether any animal with a choke collar, a collar too small for the animal, or by any rope, chain, or cord directly attached to the neck.
- The leash or tether must be at least 12 feet long, have swivels on both ends, and not be so heavy as to restrict movement.
- Tethering is prohibited between 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
- Unsterilized dogs may only be tethered if a competent adult is outside and within visual range.
- Dogs under six months old, or those that are sick or injured, cannot be tethered.
- Dogs must be brought inside a temperature-controlled building when:
- The temperature is at or below 20°F or at or above 90°F.
- There is a heat advisory, wind chill warning, or tornado warning.
Fort Wayne:
- Tethering directly to the neck is prohibited; a properly fitted collar or harness must be used.
- The tether must be at least six feet long and not weigh more than one-eighth of the dog’s body weight.
- Tethering is prohibited for dogs under six months old, unsterilized dogs, and between 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
- Tethered animals must have access to adequate shelter at all times.
Weather Restrictions
Many Indiana ordinances require that pets be brought indoors during extreme weather:
- When temperatures fall below 20°F or rise above 90°F.
- During heat advisories, wind chill warnings, or tornado warnings.
- On days above 80°F, outdoor shelters must provide shade.
Penalties for Violations
Violating Indiana’s animal cruelty and tethering laws can result in:
- Misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the severity and whether there are previous convictions.
- Fines, jail time, and potential loss of pet ownership rights.
Key Tethering Rules in Indiana
| Rule/Condition | State Law | Indianapolis/Marion County | Fort Wayne |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum length of tether | 3x dog’s length | 12 feet | 6 feet |
| Collar type | No choker/prong | No choker/prong | No choker/prong |
| Age restriction | Not specified | 6 months+ | 6 months+ |
| Weather restrictions | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Nighttime tethering | Not specified | Prohibited (11pm-6am) | Prohibited (11pm-6am) |
| Unsterilized dogs | Not specified | Only with adult present | Prohibited |
| Shelter and water access | Required | Required | Required |
It is not outright illegal to leave your pet chained outside in Indiana, but there are strict laws governing how, when, and under what conditions it can be done. Tethering that endangers a pet’s health, fails to provide adequate shelter, or violates local ordinances can lead to criminal charges and other penalties. Always check both state law and your local city or county ordinances before tethering a pet outside.
Sources:
- https://www.animallaw.info/topic/table-state-dog-tether-laws
- https://www.wthr.com/article/life/animals/its-hot-outside-time-for-a-refresher-on-indys-pet-laws/531-09e83602-c108-455f-9397-ccdda51cce50
- https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/indiana/indianapolis-and-marion-county-indiana/
- https://www.animallaw.info/statute/cruelty-consolidated-cruelty-statutes
- https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/ftwayne/latest/ftwayne_in/0-0-0-48326
