A new EU regulation will restrict how long dogs and cats can be tethered in breeding, sales, and shelter facilities, with Spain already enforcing even tougher national rules. The changes mark a significant shift in animal welfare standards across Europe.
From August 2028, a new European Union regulation will impose strict limits on how long dogs and cats can be kept tethered in breeding centers, pet shops, and shelters. The measure, published as Reglamento (UE) 2026/1818, sets a maximum of one hour for animals to remain tied up under the care of professional operators, with exceptions only for medical treatment or regulated events. The rule does not apply to private pet owners, but it signals a clear move toward higher animal welfare standards across the continent.
Spain, however, is already ahead of the curve. Since 2023, the country’s national Animal Welfare Law has banned the use of devices that restrict a pet’s movement to a fixed point, except when prescribed by a veterinarian for health reasons. The law also prohibits leaving pets tied up in public spaces without direct supervision and forbids keeping dogs and cats on balconies, terraces, rooftops, storage rooms, or vehicles for extended periods. Leaving a dog unsupervised for more than 24 hours is also not allowed. Fines for minor violations start at €500 and can reach €10,000, while serious breaches may cost up to €50,000, depending on the circumstances.
Poland is following a similar path. In July 2026, the country approved a national ban on tethering dogs and cats, with a few exceptions for short, justified periods such as walks, transport, or veterinary care. The law, set to take effect in 2027, requires that dogs kept outdoors must have free movement within a fenced area, or be given daily exercise outside their kennel if that’s not possible. This replaces previous rules that allowed for longer periods of chaining.
The EU’s decision is rooted in animal welfare concerns. Prolonged tethering has been linked to mobility disorders and prevents animals from resting comfortably or behaving naturally. By limiting the practice, the regulation aims to reduce suffering and improve living conditions for animals in professional care. However, the rules vary by country and do not override stricter national laws, allowing member states to maintain or introduce tougher standards.
For pet owners and professionals in Spain, these changes reinforce a trend toward greater responsibility and oversight. As the legal landscape evolves, those involved in animal care will need to stay informed and adapt to new requirements. The shift mirrors broader European efforts to harmonize animal welfare, much like the ongoing adjustments in other sectors, such as the beverage container deposit scheme discussed in recent coverage of supermarket policies.
With the EU’s new regulation set to take effect in 2028, and countries like Spain and Poland already moving ahead, the message is clear: the days of leaving pets tied up for hours are coming to an end across much of Europe.
