Michigan Leash Laws

Michigan is one of the few states with a statewide rule that keeps dogs from running at large, and cities and counties can add stricter leash rules on top of it.

Michigan leash law at a glance

What Michigan state law says

• MCL 287.262 prohibits allowing a dog to stray unless held by a leash.
• Leader, guard, farm and hunting dogs are exempt while accompanied and engaged in their work.
• Unlicensed dogs running unaccompanied can lead to a show-cause summons (287.286a).

Local leash ordinances

In practice, the leash rule you need to follow is usually your city or county ordinance. Local codes typically require a leash or other physical control in public places, allow off-leash play only in designated areas, and set fines for dogs at large.

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