As of February 2025, Oklahoma does not have a statewide law specifically prohibiting or restricting the tethering of dogs outdoors. However, some cities and municipalities within Oklahoma have enacted their own ordinances regulating this practice.
State Law
Currently, there is no Oklahoma state law that explicitly bans or limits the tethering of dogs. In 2021, House Bill 1580 was introduced to address this issue, but unfortunately it did not pass.
The bill would have prohibited chaining or tethering a dog for more than 5 hours in a 24-hour period, with some exceptions. It also aimed to set requirements for proper tethering methods, shelter, and care for dogs confined outside.
Local Ordinances
While state law is lacking, some Oklahoma cities have taken action to regulate dog tethering:
Tulsa
In November 2023, Tulsa passed an ordinance with new standards for humane pet care. Key points include:
- Prohibiting the use of choke collars, collars that are too small, or attaching tethers directly to a dog’s neck
- Banning tethering between 11 PM and 6 AM
- Requiring adequate shelter for dogs confined outside
- Mandating that dogs be brought inside when temperatures drop below 25°F or rise above 85°F
Noble
Noble enacted animal welfare ordinances in 2023 that state:
- Dogs cannot be tethered unless supervised
- Tethers must be at least 10 feet long
- The tethering area must be kept clean and free of entanglement hazards
- Only one dog may be tethered to each cable run
Norman
Norman prohibits tethering dogs or cats for any duration unless continually supervised by an adult.
Lawton
Lawton’s ordinance forbids fastening, chaining, or tying a dog on the owner’s property or their landlord’s property without authorization from animal welfare officials.
Best Practices
While not universally illegal in Oklahoma, experts and animal welfare organizations strongly discourage long-term tethering of dogs. The practice can lead to physical and psychological harm. If tethering is necessary for short periods, recommended guidelines include:
- Using properly fitted collars or harnesses, never choke or prong collars
- Ensuring tethers are at least 5 times the dog’s body length
- Providing constant access to water, food, and appropriate shelter
- Avoiding tethering in extreme weather conditions
- Limiting tethering to no more than a few hours at a time
Advocacy Efforts
Animal welfare groups in Oklahoma continue to push for stronger statewide protections for tethered dogs. The organization Unchain OK works to educate owners about alternatives to chaining and provides resources to improve conditions for outdoor dogs.
In conclusion, while Oklahoma lacks comprehensive state laws on dog tethering, the trend is moving towards increased regulation at the local level. Pet owners should check their local ordinances and prioritize humane treatment, ensuring their dogs have proper shelter, exercise, and companionship rather than relying on long-term tethering.
Sources:
- https://www.nhes.org/oklahoma-is-advocating-for-tethered-dogs/
- https://www.billtrack50.com/billdetail/1274921
- https://www.tulsacouncil.org/post/city-council-approves-ordinance-updating-standards-of-humane-pet-care
- https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/groveok/latest/grove_ok/0-0-0-722
