◦ Statewide leash law
Michigan dog leash laws.
◦ Summary
Michigan is one of only three US states with a statewide leash requirement. Michigan Compiled Laws § 287.262 makes it unlawful to allow any dog to stray off the owner's property unless held properly in leash.
◦ Notes & gotchas
The statute applies statewide and is enforced by both state and local officers. The leash requirement is read broadly — any dog off the owner's property must be on a leash, with limited exceptions for hunting under license. Cities and counties may add stricter rules but cannot weaken this baseline.
Last reviewed May 2026. Not legal advice — verify with your municipality before relying on it.