Charleston regulates dangerous and vicious dogs based on behavior rather than breed. Dogs that bite or attack may be declared dangerous after a hearing, triggering muzzle, confinement, and liability-insurance requirements under Chapter 6.
Charleston does not impose breed-specific restrictions. Instead, Chapter 6 of the Charleston Code uses a behavior-based dangerous-dog framework consistent with West Virginia state law. After a reported bite or unprovoked attack, animal control investigates and the municipal court may declare the animal dangerous following a hearing. Owners of declared dangerous dogs must comply with secure confinement, muzzling in public, posted warning signage, and proof of liability coverage. Failure to comply or repeat incidents can result in court-ordered euthanasia and criminal charges. Owners are liable for medical costs of bite victims under state law.
Owners of declared dangerous dogs face confinement orders, muzzle requirements, fines, possible euthanasia of the animal, and civil liability for bite victim damages.
Charleston, WV
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See how Charleston's breed restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
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