Iowa Leash Laws

Iowa has no general statewide leash law, but several state statutes restrict dogs running at large in specific situations, and local governments fill in the rest.

Iowa leash law at a glance

What Iowa state law says

• Iowa Code 351.37: a dog at large without a valid rabies tag is apprehended and impounded; notice goes out within 2 days.
• During a declared rabies quarantine, dogs must be securely enclosed or leashed (351.40).
• Cities and counties may prohibit dogs running at large (351.41).

Local leash ordinances

Most leash rules people run into are local. Cities and counties commonly require dogs to be on a leash off the owner's property, set maximum leash lengths, and designate off-leash dog parks. Parks, beaches and trails often post their own rules.

Staying on the right side of the law

• Keep your dog leashed in public unless you are in a posted off-leash area.
• Make sure your dog wears a current license and rabies tag, since a loose dog without tags is the one most likely to be impounded.
• If your dog has been declared dangerous, stricter leash, muzzle and enclosure rules apply; see the dangerous dog section of Iowa dog bite laws.
• A dog that runs loose and injures someone can create liability for the owner, so a leash is also your best protection.
• Leash training makes compliance easy; a local dog trainer can help with pulling and recall.

Sources

1. Michigan State University Animal Legal & Historical Center: Iowa dog laws
2. Michigan State University Animal Legal & Historical Center: State dog leash laws