Chaining Dogs Outside Is Cruel

Have you ever walked past a chained dog? Did you think it inhumane?

If you did, then you are correct. Both The Humane Society of the United States and the United States Department of Agriculture agree that chaining or tethering a dog is inhumane and leads to psychological and physical damage to the dog and to humans.

What is tethering/chaining?

It is defined as tying a dog to a stationary object outside with chains or sometimes softer materials such as rope. This is a form of cruel containment that has become less popular over time due to changing opinions.

Often, those who chain their dogs are doing it because they cannot keep their dog inside for various reasons, their dogs are escape artists, they have no fence or a damaged one, or their family has used the same strategy in the past for their dogs. This is why educating our community is so important!

So… what exactly are the effects of being tethered?

Dogs who are kept on chains experience heavy psychological trauma and become neurotic, anxious, and, oftentimes, aggressive. Boredom transitions into agitation which transitions into aggression. These dogs cannot flee confrontation so they resort to fight. This can result in attacks on humans, dogs, and other animals. Usually unsuspecting children are the ones who get hurt. In the period from October 2003 to September 2007, at least 175 children across the country were killed or seriously injured by chained dogs. Dogs thrive on being a part of the family and having social interaction; without such, behavioral issues grow relentlessly.

Physically, tethers can cause permanent damage. Often these dogs’ necks are raw or their collar has grown into their skin due to their constant pulling and/or an ill-fitting collar. In some cases, these ingrown collars result in euthanization. If their tether gets wrapped around something, they could entangle their limbs or strangle their neck with it.

Additionally, dogs on tethers are exposed to extreme temperatures, often without shelter or shade. Their water bowls become tipped over, their environment dirty with feces and urine, or they can be stolen and sold to research facilities or to dog-fighting rings.

What are safe alternatives?

Using a fence- if they dig, place large rocks or other types of barrier at the bottom. If they jump, add a 45 degree extension. If your pup is outside because of issues inside, please consider hiring a trainer to resolve the issues.

Dogs should reside indoors with human companionship. We tamed them so that they would work with us and they deserve the world. We understand if you were unaware of the risks and are happy you’ve read this far and are considering alternatives. You and your dog will both be happier when they are kept as an indoor companion and exercised adequately!