Poland has introduced a ban on keeping dogs on chains: new rules for 2025

The Polish Parliament has adopted an amendment to the Animal Protection Act that prohibits the permanent chaining of dogs. Exceptions are only allowed for short-term tethering during walks, transportation, veterinary procedures, and training.

According to Polish Radio, the new law was approved by a majority: 280 in favor, 105 against, and 30 abstentions. According to the new rules, dogs cannot be tethered for more than 12 hours a day, nor can they be in conditions that may cause suffering or injury. The minimum leash length is 3 meters. Lawmakers emphasize that the previous rules were difficult to enforce, thereby reducing their effectiveness.

The parliamentarians adopted two amendments proposed by the Special Committee on Animal Protection, while rejecting the Law and Justice party’s proposal to reduce the minimum enclosure size and the Confederation’s proposal to abolish the rule.

The first amendment, initiated by the Civic Coalition, clarifies under what circumstances dogs can be kept on a leash. These situations include walks, transportation, participation in exhibitions, shows, and training, as well as veterinary and grooming procedures. Temporary tethering of an animal is allowed if necessary to ensure the safety of people, other animals, or the dog itself, or if the dog cannot enter a particular room with the owner. Exceptions apply only outside the dog’s primary residence.

The second amendment, introduced by “Law and Justice”, clarifies the rules for walking dogs. Now animals are required to go for walks daily, taking into account their age, health, and species needs. Owners must provide covered enclosures with an area of 10 to 20 m², depending on the dog’s weight, and increase the area if there are several animals.

These innovations do not apply to service dogs and animals in shelters. The law will enter into force 12 months after its official publication.