Maine does not ban chaining dogs outside outright, but it has very specific requirements that must be met, especially if tethering is the dog’s primary means of confinement. Chaining a dog for more than 12 hours in a 24-hour period triggers stricter shelter and tethering standards.
When Does Maine’s Stringent Law Apply?
Maine’s law applies when tethering is the “primary means of confinement,” defined as periods exceeding 12 hours in a 24-hour period. This includes dogs left chained outside for most of the day or night.
Mandatory Shelter Requirements
Basic Outdoor Shelter Standards (7 M.R.S.A. § 4015)
All dogs tied or confined unattended outdoors must have:
Enhanced Shelter for Long-Term Tethering (>12 hours/day)
When tethering is the primary confinement method, requirements increase:
Chain/Tether Length Requirements
| Dog Type | Minimum Chain Length |
|---|---|
| Non-arctic breeds | At least 5 times the dog’s length (nose tip to tail base) |
| Arctic breeds (Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes) | At least 2.5 times the dog’s length |
Additional tethering requirements:
- Chain must be attached using swivels to prevent entanglement
- Must be attached to a well-fitted collar or harness (not a choke collar)
Local Ordinances: Kittery Has Stricter Rules
Kittery, Maine has its own stricter local ordinance:
What About Extreme Weather?
Maine law requires that if a dog is tied or confined unattended outdoors under weather conditions that adversely affect health, proper shelter must be provided. This is particularly important for severe cold, which is a major concern in Maine’s climate.
Is Continuous 24/7 Chaining Allowed?
According to Maine Friends of Animals, Maine currently allows tethering 24/7 but only if all the state’s specific requirements are met. However, prolonged continuous tethering can still constitute animal cruelty if proper standards aren’t maintained.
Reporting Violations
If you suspect a dog is being chained inhumane conditions in Maine, you can contact:
Bottom Line
Maine does not prohibit chaining dogs outside, but it has detailed requirements for shelter, chain length, and conditions that must be followed. If tethering exceeds 12 hours daily, enhanced standards apply. Violations can be reported to the State Animal Welfare Department. Some municipalities like Kittery have stricter local rules.
SOURCES :
- https://groups.io/g/pet-law/topic/petlaw_heads_up_maine_pet/43895012
- https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/maine/
