Is It Illegal to Leave Your Pet Chained Outside in Delaware? Here's What the Law Says

Yes, Delaware law strictly regulates when and how you can leave your dog chained or tethered outside. Violating these rules can result in fines and penalties.

Key Provisions of Delaware’s Tethering Law

Maximum Tethering Time:
- A dog cannot be tethered for more than nine consecutive hours in a 24-hour period.
- If no one is home, a dog can only be tied up for two hours.
Extreme Weather Restrictions: During periods of extreme heat or cold (when the National Weather Service issues a weather advisory or warning), a dog can only be kept outside for 15 minutes.
Supervision Requirement: Dogs cannot be left outside and unattended for more than 15 minutes during hazardous weather or when conditions pose a serious risk to the dog’s health and safety.
Shelter Requirements: If a dog is left outside, the owner must provide proper shelter—metal dog houses and wire flooring are banned.
Type of Tether: Only certain types of tethers are allowed, and they must not cause harm or entanglement.

Penalties for Violations

First violation: $100 fine plus court costs
Second violation: $250 fine plus court costs
Subsequent violations: $500 fine plus court costs

Why These Laws Exist

Lawmakers enacted these rules to prevent neglect and ensure dogs are not left outside in dangerous conditions or for excessive periods, which can cause physical and psychological harm.

Summary Table

Situation	Legal?
Tethered > 9 hours in 24 hours	No
Tethered > 2 hours when no one is home	No
Outside > 15 min. during weather advisory	No
Left outside without proper shelter	No
Metal/wire dog houses or flooring	No

It is illegal in Delaware to leave your dog chained outside beyond the strict time limits, during hazardous weather, or without proper shelter. Penalties are enforced to protect animal welfare and prevent neglect.

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