I’m a firm believer that a dog (or puppy) should never live out it’s life on the end of a chain. Chained dogs have higher stress levels and are more likely to become territorial or aggressive.

Do I believe there’s a time or place to use a chain, cable, or tie-out? Yes. A chain, tie-out, or cable can be a handy tool to let your dog out to use the bathroom, get a little additional exercise, or spend a little time in the sun and shade with you while you read a book or relax outdoors.

A chain should never, ever be a permanent restraint. You should always be right there with your dog – even if you’re standing inside the door watching him play in the rain.

I believe the best way to exercise your dog or puppy is the method that provides him the most time spent with his family:

• being walked on a leash
• playing in a fenced in yard
• a short potty break on a tie-out or cable
• a Mag Pen or chain link kennel (for potty or play), and the bigger the better

Here’s how I worded my no-chain policy when I bred. Feel free to copy any or all of the text you need to add to your contract!

Our Policy on Chaining

We have a “NO-CHAIN” policy, meaning we require that you do not chain your dog! A chained dog is not only prone to higher anxiety and stress, it will become less socialized than a dog that lives indoors. The outcome is a potential danger for people and pets who come within reach.

Another danger to consider is entanglement. A chain that is wrapped even once around a child’s neck can easily result in severe injury or death. We have used a child as reference here, as most reported casualties are to children. You can basically replace the word “child” with “anyone and anything” that comes within the reach of the dog!

What we recommend:

Our recommendation is a well trained, well socialized dog that is walked on a leash. A fenced yard with plenty room to exercise is also a top choice for your dog.

As a last resort, a spacious kennel (a Mag Pen is top choice, heavy chain link is second) with proper housing, shade from the summer sun and protection from winter winds, in addition to long walks on the leash (or a “run in the park”, where allowable by law) will suffice.

All dogs, no matter where they are kept, should receive plenty of attention and socialization in addition to having, at the least, basic obedience training.

When in doubt, remember: “A CHAIN MAY BE INEXPENSIVE, BUT A CHILD’S LIFE IS PRICELESS!”