Think Twice: This Winter Habit Could Be Deadly for Michigan Dogs

Michigan is about to get hit with some seriously cold temps starting this Sunday. But hey, that’s nothing new for us Michiganders, right? Still, it’s a good time to stop and think about how the freezing weather affects everyone—including your pets.

There’s nothing sadder than seeing a dog tied up outside in the middle of a freezing Michigan winter. It tugs at the old heartstrings, doesn’t it? We all know it’s wrong, but is it actually illegal?

Here’s the thing: it depends.

Is It Illegal to Leave Your Dog Outside in the Cold in Michigan?

Michigan doesn’t have a specific law banning you from leaving your dog outside in freezing temperatures. In my opinion, there should be. Some states have tough laws that only allow dogs to be tied up outside for 30 minutes when it’s below 32°F (or above 90°F in the summer). Violators in those states can face massive fines—like up to $15,000—or even jail time.

But in Michigan? Not so much.

While there’s no law outright saying “don’t leave your dog out in the cold,” Michigan does require pet owners to provide adequate shelter, food, and water. That means if your dog is outside, you better make sure they have a proper doghouse that’s insulated, and dry and protects them from wind and snow. Oh, and don’t forget unfrozen water and enough food to keep them going in the cold.

Michigan Humane says plenty of pet owners don’t meet these basic requirements, especially when times are tough. And if they don’t? They could face fines, community service, or even jail time.

Look, you wouldn’t leave your kid tied to a tree in the middle of winter, so why would you do it to your dog?

When it’s freezing out, bring your pets inside. If you can’t, make sure they have everything they need to stay warm, safe, and healthy. Their life depends on it.