The Truth About Dog Chaining

Chaining - By Staff Writer on Tuesday, March 2, 2010 - 17:37

The term dog chaining refers to habitually tying a dog to a stationary object for extended periods of time.  This is typically used to keep dogs in a yard and controlled.  This does not refer to tying or tethering up a dog occasionally or putting it on a leach or chain to walk it.  When a dog is chained it is permitted only a small area to roam.

Chaining and Neglect
Chaining almost always goes hand in hand with neglect.  By definition, when a dog is chained it is permitted only a small area to roam and is kept for extended periods of time in this one area with little interaction.  If a dog is left with no interaction it constitutes the definition of neglect.  Typically chained dogs are neglected to the point where they have rubbed the collar into their skin leaving sores or even, left as a puppy, the collar or tether is too tight and the skin grows over becoming very painful.

Psychological Problem
Chaining a dog will often lead to psychological problems.  The lack of stimulation over extended periods of time will lead to the dog becoming anxious and aggressive.  The longer a dog is held in the tethered position the more severe the behavioral change will become.  Dogs that are experiencing psychological stress will exhibit behaviors such as stereotypic movements (repetitive or obsessive) like pacing, moving back and forth or frenzied chewing to free itself and constant barking. Constant licking or self-chewing to the point of causing open sores and wounds is not uncommon.

Attacks
Chained dogs are often the perpetrators of attacks.  A chained dog is not permitted to flee when it experiences the fight or flight emotion and will attack anyone that impedes on its territory.  Even sweet dogs will become vicious when chained for long periods.  The dog is also more likely to be the target of attack by other dogs and other animals as they are unable to flee their space.

Strangulation Risk
Dogs that are chained unattended are at a greater risk for accidental strangulation.  If their leash gets caught on something they will be unable to free themselves and will likely die from strangulation.

How To Help A Chained Dog
If you see a chained dog and you suspect it is neglected do not approach it.  You should immediately contact animal care and control in your area and they will investigate.  You should never approach the owner as they might move the dog to prevent it from being taken but they will likely continue the neglect.

Check With Your City
Check with your city and see what the local ordinance is.  Many cities have passed laws that outlaw chaining of dogs and other animals to prevent neglect and attacks.  You can work to get one passed if one does not already exist.

Organizations that Fight Chaining
Dogs Deserve Better
www.dogsdeservebetter.com

Mothers Against Dog Chaining
www.mothersagainstdogchaining.org