Georgia Responsible Dog Owner Law and Leash Rules

The Georgia Responsible Dog Owner Law (O.C.G.A. 4-8-20 through 4-8-32) establishes uniform statewide procedures for classifying dangerous and vicious dogs, owner registration, secure enclosure requirements, and liability insurance for vicious dogs. While leash requirements themselves are set by counties and cities, the state mandates that dogs classified as dangerous or vicious be confined indoors or in a secure enclosure and leashed and muzzled when off the owner's property. Owners of vicious dogs face stricter requirements.

Violations can result in misdemeanor charges, fines up to $1,000, dog impoundment, and felony charges if a vicious dog seriously injures a person.