Pets are like family to many of us, and Colorado takes their well-being seriously. If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s legal to chain or tether your dog outside in Colorado, you’re not alone. In recent years, lawmakers in the state have strengthened animal protection laws to make sure pets are treated with care and respect.
This article explains Colorado’s current laws about chaining pets outdoors, especially dogs, and what every pet owner should know to stay on the right side of the law in 2025.
Is Chaining a Dog Outside Legal in Colorado?
Chaining or tethering a dog outside is not completely illegal in Colorado, but the law does have clear limits to protect animals from abuse, neglect, and long-term suffering.
In 2022, Colorado passed a law (House Bill 21-1125) that sets strict rules on how and when dogs can be tethered. The goal is to make sure dogs are not left outside for too long or in unsafe conditions.
What Does the Law Say?
Here are the key points from the current Colorado tethering law:
Tethering time limit: You cannot chain or tether a dog for more than one hour at a time if the dog is not under direct supervision.
Weather conditions: Dogs cannot be left outside in extreme weather, including freezing temperatures, heavy rain, or very hot days, without proper shelter, shade, and access to water.
Proper equipment: The tether must be attached to a properly fitting collar or harness. Using heavy chains or choke collars can be considered abuse.
Free movement: The tether must allow the dog to move around comfortably, without getting tangled or stuck.
Age and size: Puppies under six months and small dogs cannot be tethered for extended periods, even under supervision.
What Is Considered Animal Cruelty?
If someone chains a dog in a way that causes harm, discomfort, or prevents it from getting food, water, or shelter, it may be seen as animal cruelty. Colorado law treats animal cruelty as a serious offense, with penalties that include fines, community service, and even jail time for repeat offenders.
Signs of cruelty may include:
Tethering in extreme weather without shelter
Using tight or painful collars
Leaving dogs chained for several hours or days
Lack of food, water, or medical care
If you see this happening, you can report it to local animal control or law enforcement.
Can You Still Let Your Dog Outside?
Yes, of course! Letting your dog enjoy fresh air is perfectly fine. You can still let your dog outside in your yard as long as:
They are not tethered for more than an hour without supervision
They have access to clean water, shelter, and shade
They’re protected from harsh weather
They’re in a safe area (like a fenced yard)
You can also use a secured outdoor dog run or install a fence to give your dog space to play safely without needing a tether.
What Happens If You Break the Law?
Violating Colorado’s tethering law can lead to:
Warnings or citations from animal control
Fines, especially for repeat offenses
In serious cases, criminal charges for animal cruelty
Pet owners may also lose custody of the animal if the pet is found to be in danger or severely neglected.
Colorado law allows dogs to be outdoors, but chaining them for long periods without proper care is illegal. The state aims to protect pets from abuse and neglect by limiting how long dogs can be tethered and making sure they are kept in safe, humane conditions.
If you’re a pet owner in Colorado, it’s important to understand and follow these rules to ensure your dog stays safe, healthy, and happy.
