Mark Casto | July 1, 2025 | Georgia Law
How a dog must be leashed depends on the way the dog is categorized by law. Under Georgia law, dogs are classified as either “dangerous” or “vicious” based on the severity of harm they have caused or are likely to cause. This classification determines the restraint rules for the owner, with stricter requirements for dogs labeled as vicious.
Dog Leash Restraint Requirements
Under Georgia’s dog leash law, a dog classified as “dangerous” must be appropriately restrained whenever it is off its owner’s property. Specifically, such a dog must be secured on a leash no longer than six feet, confined within a locked and sturdy enclosure, or actively engaged in a lawful activity, such as hunting or herding, under the handler’s supervision.
These measures ensure that a dog with a known propensity to cause harm is kept under close physical control, thereby minimizing the risk of unanticipated attacks on persons or other animals. Georgia imposes even more rigorous requirements for dogs deemed “vicious.” In addition to the six-foot leash and secure confinement applicable to dangerous dogs, vicious dogs must be fitted with a muzzle at all times when in public.
Furthermore, the owner may never leave a vicious dog unattended with minors, regardless of whether the child is under the direct supervision of an adult. Georgia law reflects the Legislature’s judgment that dogs with histories of attacks present an elevated threat that demands both physical barriers and constant supervision. If a dog is unleashed or unattended, you may consider calling animal control for further assistance.
Legal Distinctions Between Dangerous and Vicious Dogs
A “dangerous dog” is defined as any dog that, without provocation, bites or attacks a person or domestic animal in a manner that breaks the skin or otherwise creates a reasonable risk of injury. This classification captures conduct beyond mere threat or intimidation and requires an actual physical act likely to cause harm.
The statute further distinguishes a “vicious dog” as one that kills or inflicts severe injury on a person or domestic animal, or that exhibits a demonstrated propensity to do so. In other words, a vicious dog is not only capable of causing serious harm but has either already done so or presented the potential for extreme violence.
Certain situations are expressly excluded from these designations. A dog’s actions in defense of its owner or while performing law-enforcement duties cannot render it dangerous or vicious under the statute. Likewise, incidents in which the injured party was trespassing, abusing the animal, or engaging in criminal conduct are exempt. Finally, mere vocalizations, such as barking or growling are not enough to classify a dog as dangerous.
Local Leash Law Compliance and Liability
There are no statewide leash laws that require docile dogs to be on a leash at all times. However, local governments may adopt and enforce ordinances or resolutions requiring dogs to be on leashes at all times.
It is important that dog owners understand the significance of local ordinances, or they could be in serious trouble if their dog injures someone. In Georgia, proving a dog’s vicious propensity can be satisfied by showing that the dog was not restrained as required by a local leash ordinance.
Georgia’s strict liability standard may apply when a city or county leash law is violated. Even if an dog has never bitten anybody before, that may be sufficient to establish liability.
Contact the Columbus Personal Injury Lawyers at Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm Today
If you were injured in an accident in Columbus, GA, and need legal help, contact our Columbus personal injury lawyers at Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm to schedule a free case review today.
Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm
233 12th St #808
Columbus, GA 31901
(706) 940-4030
