Tethering or chaining your pet can be risky if not done right. Idaho doesn’t have a statewide law setting exact rules, but general anti‐cruelty laws do apply. Many cities in Idaho also enforce their own local regulations you must follow.
State-Level: No Specific Tethering Law, But Animal Cruelty Applies
Idaho doesn’t set specific statewide rules on how long or how a dog can be chained. However, general animal cruelty laws in Idaho Code, Title 25, Chapter 35, prohibit neglect or abuse.
If chaining causes neglect—like not enough food, water, shelter, or risks to health—it can violate these laws. The same applies if the chain injures the animal.
Local Ordinances: Watch City-by-City Rules
Because there’s no statewide standard, many Idaho cities have their own rules. Here’s what some have adopted:
Pocatello
Dogs cannot be chained more than 3 continuous hours or 6 hours in 24 hours. Tether must be at least 10 feet long, weigh less than 1/8 of the dog’s weight, use swivels both ends, and attach to a proper collar or harness. Choke chains or pinch collars are banned.
Gooding
Tether must be at least 10 feet. It can’t exceed 20% of dog’s body weight. Dogs may not be chained more than 14 hours in 24 hours, and cannot reach fences or objects that could strangle them. Choke or pinch collars while unattended are not allowed.
Coeur d’Alene (and many counties)
It’s illegal to tether an animal if any part goes onto public property. Leashes must be no longer than 10 feet on public property; longer tethers in private must not reach into sidewalks or streets .
What These Rules Have in Common
Idaho city rules often require:
Long enough tethers (10 + feet).
Lightweight chains (≤12–20% of body weight).
Proper collars/harnesses (no choke or pinch).
Time limits (3–14 hours/day).
No extension onto public property.
If these aren’t followed, you could face a misdemeanor citation, fines, or seizure of the animal.
What to Do Before Chaining Your Pet
- Check your city or county’s animal control ordinance—rules vary locally.
- Use proper equipment: at least a 10 ft tether, swivel ends, and a soft collar/harness.
- Don’t exceed local or posted time limits.
- Ensure full access to fresh water, shelter, and clean area.
- Never let the animal reach fences, roads, or public land.
Following local ordinances helps prevent cruelty charges and keeps your pet safe.
There’s no single law in Idaho banning chaining, but general cruelty rules still apply. Many Idaho cities have precise local rules setting limits on how long and how a pet can be tethered.
To stay legal and humane: check your local rules, use the correct tethering setup, don’t over-chain your pet, and ensure they have food, water, shelter, and enough space. That way, you avoid legal trouble and protect your furry friend.
