Dogs (like people) are social animals, yet more than 200,000 dogs live empty lives chained or tethered outdoors. Tied-up outside, dogs become lonely, bored, and anxious, and they can develop aggressive behaviors. Bring a dog inside (or help a chained dog in your neighborhood) and you’ll keep everyone safer.

Some people believe that dogs should live outside to protect a home or property. Dogs are also put outside because they display behaviors that challenge their families. In practice, chaining threatens the dog's health and well-being and the safety other animals and humans.

As communities learn about the negative impact of chaining or tethering dogs, many have begun passing laws against long-term chaining. Learn how to educate and mobilize your neighbors, free a chained dog, and prevent more dogs from suffering a sad, solitary life on a chain. What you can do »

Our Guide to Helping Chained Dogs »

Do You Chain Your Dog? »