Indiana does not have a single statewide law that outright bans chaining or tethering pets outside. Instead, the state’s animal cruelty and neglect statutes set standards for how pets may be restrained.
Under Indiana law, it is considered neglect-and therefore illegal-to restrain an animal for more than a brief period in a way that endangers the animal’s life or health. Specifically, it is unlawful to use a rope, chain, or tether that:
- Is less than three times the length of the animal
- Is too heavy for the animal to move freely
- Causes the animal to choke
- Otherwise seriously endangers the animal’s life or health.
Leaving a pet chained outside without adequate shelter, water, or in extreme weather (such as excessive heat without shade) can also be prosecuted as neglect or cruelty.
Local Ordinances: Rules Vary by City and County
Because Indiana does not have a statewide leash or tethering law, cities and counties set their own rules. This means what’s legal in one part of Indiana may be illegal in another. For example:
- Indianapolis/Marion County: It is unlawful to tether a pet using a choke collar, a collar too small for the animal, or a rope/chain attached directly to the neck. Tethers must be at least 12 feet long, have swivels on both ends, and not be too heavy. Dogs must have access to water, shelter, and dry ground, and cannot be tethered if under six months old, sick, or injured.
- South Bend: Pets may not be tied directly to the neck with a rope, chain, or cord.
- Harrison County: Tethered animals must have at least 10 feet of unobstructed movement in a 180-degree arc, and collars must be made of safe, non-metallic materials.
What Counts as Animal Cruelty or Neglect?
Tethering that causes harm, restricts movement, or leaves an animal exposed to dangerous weather can be prosecuted as cruelty or neglect, which is a misdemeanor and can become a felony if the animal is seriously injured. Examples include:
- Tethering an animal in a way that causes injury or prevents access to food, water, or shelter
- Leaving an animal chained outside in extreme heat or cold without protection
- Using chains or tethers that are too short or heavy
Enforcement and Penalties
Animal control officers and law enforcement can impound pets found to be abused or neglected. Penalties for violating cruelty or neglect laws can include fines, jail time, and loss of pet ownership rights.
Key Takeaways for Pet Owners
- There is no statewide ban on tethering, but neglectful or cruel restraint is illegal everywhere in Indiana.
- Local laws may be stricter than state law-always check your city or county ordinances.
- Tethers must allow freedom of movement, not cause harm, and provide for the animal’s basic needs.
- Leaving a pet chained outside in a way that endangers its health or safety can result in criminal charges.
When in doubt, provide your pet with shelter, water, and enough room to move freely-or consult your local animal control office for guidance.
Sources:
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=20lMtwRFehI
- https://www.in.gov/counties/harrison/files/Animal-Control-Ordinance-2025-01.pdf
- https://www.animallaw.info/topic/table-state-dog-tether-laws
- https://mylolowcountry.com/usa-laws/is-it-illegal-to-leave-your-pet-chained-outside-in-indiana-heres-what-the-law-says/