Indiana Pet Laws

This page summarizes the main state laws that affect dog and cat owners in Indiana, with links to the full guide for each topic. State law sets the baseline; your city or county can add stricter rules, so check local ordinances too.

Indiana Dog License Requirements

Indiana has no statewide dog license. A county can adopt an optional dog tax of up to $5 a year for dogs 6 months and older (IC 6-9-39), and counties and cities may not run their own licensing system unless that tax is in effect. Kennel tax caps are $30 for six or fewer dogs and $50 for more.

Read the full dog license requirements guide →

Indiana Leash Laws

Indiana has no statewide leash law. Cities and counties set leash and at-large rules by ordinance. State law steps in mainly during a rabies quarantine, when animals running at large must be impounded (IC 15-17-6-10).

Read the full leash laws guide →

Indiana Dog Bite Laws

Indiana's dog bite statute (IC 15-20-1-3) makes owners liable without proof of prior viciousness only when the dog bites someone, such as a mail carrier or public official, performing a duty required by law. Other bite claims follow the one-bite rule and negligence. The filing deadline is 2 years.

Read the full dog bite laws guide →

Indiana Rabies Vaccination Laws for Dogs and Cats

Indiana requires dogs, cats and ferrets to be vaccinated against rabies by 3 months of age by a licensed, accredited veterinarian (345 IAC 1-5-1, 1-5-2). Harboring an unvaccinated dog over 6 months is a Class C infraction, and it becomes a Class B misdemeanor if the dog bites someone (IC 35-46-3-1).

Read the full rabies vaccination laws guide →

Indiana Pet Limit Laws: How Many Pets Can You Own?

Indiana has no statewide limit on household pets. Commercial dog breeders with more than 19 unaltered females must register with the state (IC 15-21, MSU). Counties with a dog tax charge a kennel tax, and cities and counties set household limits.

Read the full pet limit laws guide →

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This page summarizes state statutes for general information and is not legal advice. Laws change and cities and counties often add their own rules; check the current statute and your local ordinance, or ask a licensed attorney about your situation.