West Virginia Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Key Facts

Primary statute: WV Code §19-20
Registration age: Six months and older
Running at large: Prohibited statewide
Rabies vaccination: Mandatory annually

Full Breakdown

Under WV Code §19-20, every dog over six months must be registered annually and wear a county-issued tag. WV Code §19-20-12 makes it unlawful for any dog to run at large; owners are liable for damages caused by dogs allowed to roam. Dogs found unaccompanied may be impounded by county dog wardens or humane officers. Rabies vaccination is mandatory under §19-20A. While municipalities can enact stricter leash ordinances, the state baseline requiring control of dogs and prohibiting running at large applies everywhere in West Virginia.

Violations & Penalties

Running-at-large violations are misdemeanors. Owners are civilly liable for any damage caused. Unregistered or unvaccinated dogs may be impounded and the owner fined.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does West Virginia require dogs to be on a leash?

State law requires dogs to be confined or under reasonable control and prohibits running at large. Specific leash requirements are typically set by municipal or county ordinance.

Are dog license fees set by the state?

Yes. WV Code §19-20-2 establishes statewide registration fees collected by county assessors, with separate fees for sterilized and unsterilized dogs.

West Virginia Statewide Dog Restraint and Running-At-Large Law