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What is meant by "chaining" or "tethering" dogs?

These terms are used to refer to the practice of fastening a dog to a stationary object or pole, usually in his or her owner's backyard, as a means of keeping the animal under control. It does not refer to the periods when an animal is walked on a leash.

Is there a problem with continuous chaining or tethering?

Yes, it is inhumane and can be dangerous to the confined dog, people, and other animals.

Why is it a problem?

Dogs are wonderful companion animals because they love human beings and want to interact with us. They also want to interact with other animals. Dogs are very social beings. If they are chained in one spot for hours, days, months and even years, they are denied the opportunity to socialize. It is a miserable life. Yet, for a multitude of dogs in this country, that is exactly what happens to them. Constant chaining makes dogs neurotic, unhappy, anxious, and often even aggressive. And in too many cases,the neck area is constantly irritated or sore from improperly fitted collars and the constant yanking and straining of their necks in their desperate attempts to escape confinement.

Who says it is inhumane?

In addition to The HSUS and numerous animal experts, The United States Department of Agriculture issued a statement in the July 2, 1996 Federal Register against tethering. The Department proposed an amendment to ban the practice under Regulations to the Animal Welfare Act which had allowed tethering in USDA licensed facilities. The USDA stated, "Our experience in enforcing the Animal Welfare Act has led us to conclude that continuous confinement of dogs by a tether is inhumane. A tether significantly restricts a dog's movement. A tether can also become tangled around or hooked on the dog's shelter structure or other objects, further restricting the dog's movement and potentially causing injury."

Why is tethering or chaining dangerous to humans?

Because of the psychological damage caused by continuous chaining, dogs that are subjected to it can become dangerous and vicious animals. They are more ikely to bark incessantly and even attack children or adults who mistakenly enter into the area of the dog's confinement. And if they do escape their restraint, they are not adequately socialized and are more likely to bite.

How does chaining or tethering cause such problems?

An animal's frustration level rises from such long periods of constant boredom and the frustration of watching the rest of the world go by. Unfortunately, children and others often cruelly tease or harass these animals causing them to become even more ill-tempered. It is a vicious cycle. Because the dog lacks socialization skills, humans are less likely to give him or her much sought after love and attention.

Is the animal in jeopardy?

Yes, besides the psychological suffering associated with this type of treatment, the dog is an easy target for thieves looking to steal dogs for sale to research institutions or to be used as training fodder for organized animal fights. Also, should another more dangerous animal enter into the area, the chained dog has no way to escape an attack. And as mentioned above, these pathetic animals are often the victims of cruel teasing and harassment. Often rocks, sticks, or other objects are thrown at them.

Are the areas in which they are confined usually pleasant?

No. Because the dogs have to eat, sleep, urinate, and defecate all in the same confined area, it is very unsanitary. It is unusual for an owner to clean the area in any way. And even though there may have once been grass, it is usually so beaten down by the pacing and anxious dog , the ground is entirely dirt or mud.

But how else can people confine dogs?

The HSUS recommends that all dogs be kept indoors at night, taken on regular walks, and otherwise provided with adequate attention, food, water, and veterinary care. However, it is acknowledged that not all dogs will receive this ideal care. If an animal must be housed outside at all times, he or she should be placed in a suitable pen with adequate square footage to allow the animal a humane environment. Adequate shelter from the elements should always be available to them.

If a dog is to be chained or tethered for a period of time, can it be done humanely?

Animals should be chained in such a way that they cannot become entangled with other objects; collars used to attach an animal shall not be of a choke type but should be comfortable and properly fitted; and no restraintshould prohibit an animal from comfortably lying down or moving about. Animals should never be chained in cases of natural disasters such as floods, hurricanes, or blizzards.

What about attaching a dog's leash to a pulley run?

Attaching a leash to a long line - such as a clothesline - and letting a dog have a larger area in which to explore, is better than being tied to a stationary object. However, all the concerns regarding attacks on or by other animals, lack of socialization, and safety still apply, especially if the animal is tied up for his or her entire lifetime.