The welfare of pets, especially dogs, is a growing concern across the United States. In Michigan, the practice of leaving dogs chained or tethered outside has come under increasing legal scrutiny. With evolving state and local regulations, pet owners must understand their responsibilities to ensure the humane treatment of their animals and avoid legal consequences.
Michigan State Law on Tethering Dogs
Michigan law does not outright ban tethering dogs outside, but it strictly regulates how it can be done. According to state law, it is illegal to tether a dog unless the tether is at least three times the length of the dog (measured from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail) and is attached to a harness or non-choke collar specifically designed for tethering.
This law aims to prevent injuries and ensure that dogs have enough freedom of movement. There are exceptions: these restrictions do not apply if the dog is being groomed, trained, transported, or used in a hunt or event where a shorter tether is necessary for safety.
Local Regulations: Detroit as a Case Study
Many Michigan cities have their own ordinances that go further than state law. Detroit, for example, prohibits chaining a dog for more than three continuous hours and requires the use of a plastic-coated tether.
However, enforcement is a challenge—Detroit Animal Care and Control often lacks the resources to proactively police these violations, leaving much of the burden on citizens to report and document offenses.
Enforcement and Penalties
While laws exist, enforcement varies widely by jurisdiction. In Detroit, for instance, enforcement often relies on neighbors to document and report violations, which can be a significant barrier. Statewide, violations of tethering laws can lead to civil penalties and, in severe cases, criminal charges for animal cruelty.
Latest Statistics and Trends
As of 2025, about 23 states have laws that regulate or restrict dog tethering, reflecting a national trend toward stronger animal welfare protections. In Michigan, increased public awareness and advocacy have led to more cities adopting specific chaining ordinances, though comprehensive statewide statistics on enforcement and violations remain limited.
Additional Legal Considerations for Pet Owners
Rental Properties: Landlords in Michigan may set reasonable pet policies, including rules about outdoor tethering, as long as they do not violate state or local laws.
Licensing: All dogs over four months old must be licensed in Michigan, ensuring a basic level of oversight for pet welfare.
Conclusion
It is not outright illegal to leave your pet chained outside in Michigan, but it is heavily regulated. Owners must use an appropriate tether, provide adequate length and safety, and comply with stricter local ordinances where applicable.
As public concern for animal welfare grows, Michigan continues to refine its laws to protect pets from neglect and harm. Pet owners are urged to stay informed about both state and local regulations to avoid legal trouble and, more importantly, to ensure the well-being of their animals.
Source:
[1] https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/michigan/
[2] https://www.steadily.com/blog/pet-laws-regulations-rental-properties-michigan
[3] https://www.animallaw.info/topic/table-state-dog-tether-laws
[4] https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/-/media/Project/Websites/dnr/Documents/Boards/NRC/2025/March-2025/Signed_05WCO2025_Info.pdf
[5] https://www.clickondetroit.com/features/2023/10/17/analysis-detroit-has-dog-chaining-laws-but-nobody-seems-to-care/
[6] https://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/mcl/pdf/mcl-Act-287-of-1969.pdf
[7] https://www.animallaw.info/content/map-state-dog-tethering-laws
[8] https://familyfriendsvet.com/2024/01/22/michigan-pet-laws/