Suffolk, VA Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Suffolk City Code Sec. 10-43 requires every dog to be kept confined to the owner's premises unless in the custody of a responsible person, and prohibits a dog from running at large or going onto any public street, sidewalk, or right-of-way unless leashed and under the control of someone able to physically restrain it. A violation is a Class 4 misdemeanor and the dog may be impounded. Hunting dogs lawfully released to hunt, train, or compete are exempt. All dogs six months or older must be licensed under Sec. 10-66 with proof of rabies vaccination, and the tag must be worn. Rabies vaccination is required statewide under Va. Code Sec. 3.2-6521.