Summer in Carroll County, Maryland brings high temperatures that can be dangerous for dogs. In addition to being uncomfortable, heat can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke, especially in breeds that don’t regulate temperature well. But beyond good practices, both local and state laws set requirements for how dogs must be cared for outdoors.
Why Heat Is a Serious Risk for Dogs
Dogs cool themselves primarily by panting, which isn’t always effective during hot, humid conditions. Temperatures above 80–90°F can overwhelm a dog’s ability to stay cool, leading to dehydration or heat stroke. For dogs left outdoors, owners must be especially vigilant.
Legal Requirements
Shade During Hot Weather
-From June 1 to September 15, or whenever the temperature exceeds 80°F, a dog confined outdoors must have accessible shade from 11:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
-Shade must be actual protection from direct sun — a doghouse does not count as shade during hot weather.
Fresh Water Available at All Times
-Dogs kept outdoors must have fresh, clean water available continuously.
-Water sources should be stable and not easily tipped over.
Proper Outdoor Shelter (Year-Round Requirement)
-Dogs must have access to a weatherproof shelter that:
• Has a weatherproof roof,
• Has enclosed sides and a proper entrance,
• Has a solid floor raised above ground, and
• Is suitable for the dog’s size and condition.
Minimum Kennel Size Standards
-Outdoor kennels must meet minimum size requirements based on the number and size of dogs (e.g., larger square footage for larger dogs).
-Specific dimensions are set in county code.
Restraint (Tethering) Limits
-Dogs cannot be tied, chained, or tethered outdoors for more than 12 hours in any 24-hour period.
-Tethers must be long enough (measured by dog length), have swivels to prevent tangling, and allow safe, free movement.
Maryland State Law — Outdoor Dogs & Heat (Criminal Law § 10-623)
(This applies throughout Maryland including Carroll County unless a local law is more stringent.)
Restraint Standards
A dog may not be left outside and unattended with a restraint that:
• Unreasonably limits movement,
• Uses an inappropriate collar (e.g., metal),
• Prevents access to clean water or appropriate shelter,
• Exposes the dog to unsafe or unsanitary conditions, or
• Causes physical injury.
Extreme Weather & Heat Exposure Rules
It is unlawful to leave a dog outside and unattended for longer than 30 minutes without access to continuous:
•Suitable shelter during extreme weather conditions, and
•Either suitable shelter or suitable shade when temperatures rise above 90°F.
Definitions under state law:
• “Suitable shelter” must be ventilated, weatherproof, sized appropriately for the dog, and allow the dog to maintain a normal body temperature.
• “Suitable shade” means an area fully protected from direct sun and accessible to the dog.
Penalties for Violations
Violating state restraints (e.g., improper tethering conditions) is a misdemeanor and can result in fines or jail time.
Violating the heat/shelter provisions (leaving a dog outside too long without shelter/shade) is a civil offense, with escalating penalties for repeat violations (warnings, fines up to $1,000).
In extreme cases where an owner cannot be located, the dog may be removed from the property by local Animal Control Authority under Criminal Law §10-615.
Please reach out to Carroll County Animal Control if you have any questions or if you feel there is an animal in danger. Animal Control can be reached at (410) 848-4810.
