The Dalles Implements New Dog Control Ordinance Effective January 7

Under the updated rules, dogs are required to be leashed when outside of their owner’s premises, unless specifically permitted to be off-leash. The ordinance aims to clarify where dogs can be exercised off-leash while ensuring public safety.

Additionally, the ordinance places limits on the number of adult dogs residents can keep. Single-family homes may have up to four adult dogs, while duplexes and multifamily units are restricted to two. Only one adult female dog may be kept for breeding at any residence. Puppies under six months old are exempt from this count. Those already exceeding these limits can retain their pets under a grandfather clause, provided they notify Animal Control within 60 days of the ordinance’s enactment.

All dogs in The Dalles must be licensed by July 1, with proof of current rabies vaccination required for licensing. The City Council is set to determine licensing fees during its January 26 meeting. Dogs must wear their license tags at all times when not directly supervised by their owners.

The ordinance designates dogs that are off-leash and not controlled by their owners as "running at large," which may result in impoundment. It expands definitions of public nuisances, including dogs that chase people, damage property, or create prolonged noise disturbances. Potentially dangerous dogs that menace or injure individuals or other animals are defined, with specific consequences for owners including fines of up to $1,000.

Violations of the new law can lead to varying penalties, and dog owners must be responsible for any associated fees for licensing and impoundment. For further details and assistance, residents can contact Animal Control Officer Jake Baker.