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

Idaho does not have a statewide law that makes it outright illegal to leave your pet, such as a dog, chained or tethered outside. Unlike many other states, Idaho lacks comprehensive regulations addressing how long or under what conditions a dog can be left tethered outdoors.

State anti-cruelty laws may apply if the tethering results in neglect or cruelty, but there are no specific statewide restrictions on the practice itself.

Local Ordinances May Restrict Tethering

While state law is limited, several cities and counties in Idaho have their own rules:

Ada County: Owners may not tether a dog (or other companion animal) in a way that prevents it from moving freely, reaching shelter or water, or that causes entanglement. Tethering is limited to no more than 12 continuous hours in a 24-hour period, and continuous tethering is prohibited. Choke collars and unsafe environments are also banned.
Aberdeen: Dogs may not be chained or tethered for more than 3 continuous hours (or 6 hours total in 24 hours), unless using a trolley system, which allows up to 8 hours. The tether must be at least 10 feet long and not weigh more than one-eighth of the dog’s body weight. Female dogs in heat cannot be tethered at all.
Georgetown: The chain or tether must be at least 10 feet long and must prevent the dog from becoming tangled or reaching public property, roads, or fences. Owners must also provide proper shelter, food, and water.

Animal Cruelty and Neglect Laws

Even without a specific tethering law, general animal cruelty and neglect statutes apply statewide. If tethering a pet causes harm, denies access to food, water, or shelter, or exposes the animal to dangerous weather, it may be prosecuted as cruelty or neglect.

No Protection in Extreme Weather

Idaho does not have a law prohibiting leaving pets outside in extreme heat or cold, unless the animal is clearly suffering or neglected. This is in contrast to many other states, which set time or temperature limits for outdoor animals.

Key Takeaways

No statewide ban on chaining or tethering dogs outside in Idaho.
Local ordinances (Ada County, Aberdeen, Georgetown, and others) may restrict how long and how a pet can be tethered.
General cruelty laws apply if the animal is harmed, neglected, or denied basic needs.
No law protects pets from being left outside in extreme weather, unless it rises to cruelty or neglect.

In Idaho, it is not generally illegal to leave your pet chained outside, but local rules may apply, and you must always provide food, water, shelter, and prevent harm. Check your city or county ordinances for specific regulations, and remember that cruelty or neglect can still lead to legal consequences.

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