Pulaski County, AR Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- County Code § 3-26
- Basis
- Behavior-based, not breed-specific
- Vicious-dog mandate
- Tattoo, muzzle, secured enclosure, signage
- Relocation registration window
- 30 days with Animal Services
- Repeat offense penalty
- Up to $500 fine or destruction
Summary
Pulaski County declares dogs "dangerous" or "vicious" by behavior, not breed, then orders tattooing, muzzling, secure enclosures, and warning signs: with repeat offenders facing court-ordered destruction.
3-26 Vicious dog. (a)Deeming a dog dangerous or vicious. (1)Citation. An animal control officer may issue dog owner(s) a citation if the animal control officer has probable cause... that the dog meets the definition of "dangerous" or "vicious" in Pulaski County section 3-17. ... (b)After final determination -- Vicious. ... the court shall order the owner(s) to adhere to the following rules... before the dog may be released: ... b.Keep the dog in a secured enclosure, with covered top and concrete bottom, when outdoors and unattended... d.Post ... signs stating "Beware of Vicious Dog"
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 20).
Full Breakdown
Under County Code § 3-26, an animal control officer can cite a dog owner after an unprovoked attack, sending the case to Pulaski County District Court. If the court finds the dog vicious, the owner must have it tattooed with "PCV," keep it muzzled or confined in a covered, concrete-floored enclosure, leash it outdoors, and post "Beware of Vicious Dog" signs visible from the road. A dog found merely dangerous only requires warning signage before release. Dogs already labeled dangerous or vicious in another jurisdiction must be registered with Pulaski County Animal Services within 30 days of relocating into the county, with the same signage and inspection conditions applied.
Violations & Fines
Owners who skip the court-ordered tattoo, enclosure, or signage face fines up to $500 (or $250/day for ongoing noncompliance); a subsequent vicious attack can bring court-ordered humane destruction of the dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Pulaski County ban specific dog breeds?
What happens if my dog is declared vicious?
Can I move a dog already labeled dangerous into Pulaski County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Pulaski County
How Pulaski County compares: Cities with No Dog Breed Restrictions·Compare Pulaski County to another location·View the Arkansas animal ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.