While there is no statewide law concerning how many furry friends you can take care of, the major determinant in how many dogs you can own in Arizona is the municipality wherein you reside.

Maricopa County

, for example, there is no limit to the number of pets a resident can own, as long as the owner has the means and resources to take care of them. Make sure you’re not biting off more of that dog bone than you can chew, and ensure you can provide food, water, and shelter for any new pups you bring home.

It’s also important to ensure your dog is vaccinated and licensed by your county. Keep in mind that landlords and housing authorities may have specific restrictions in place concerning pet ownership. If you’re unsure, check with your local housing or police department.

Are there any dog breeds outlawed in Arizona?

Arizona is one of the only states that does not ban specific dog breeds. Breed-specific legislation has caused a variety of issues for families, communities, and dogs in the past, and can be both expensive and difficult to enforce. In fact,

this law

allows Pitbulls and other “dangerous dogs” to be protected from breed-specific regulations in Arizona.

However, Arizona does require that owners of “aggressive dogs” (i.e. any dog that has bitten or has a history of biting a person or domestic animal without provocation) take steps to ensure the dog is:

Prohibited from escaping outside of the enclosed structure or area of their property

Prevented from biting or attacking while off the owner’s property

MORE: Can You Get Pet Insurance for a Pet with Preexisting Conditions?

What are the leash laws in Arizona?

While dogs always have their ways of slithering away from you at any whiff of a squirrel, it is your responsibility as the owner to ensure your pup is properly leashed.

Under Arizona leash law, owners must abide by the following:

Female dogs in their breeding or mating season, along with vicious dogs, are not permitted off leash

Any dogs in quarantine for rabies shall not be permitted at large and must be confined within the owner’s property

Any dogs over 3 months of age must wear a collar or harness with a valid license tag attached

Dogs are not permitted in any public park or school property unless restrained by a leash or enclosed in a car, crate, or similar enclosure

Penalties for breaking dog laws in Arizona

The penalties for breaking dog laws can be devastating for both owners and dogs alike. For example, an unvaccinated dog that bites any person will be confined and quarantined in a pound or veterinary hospital at the expense of the owner for at least ten days.

In most dog bite cases, the owner is liable for any damages suffered by the person bitten. However, if the owner provides proof that the attack was provoked, they may use this as a reasonable defense against liability.

Dog owners and custodians who fail to comply with Arizona dog laws can be found guilty of a civil violation with a civil sanction of $250, while any violation of the law after your dog has been determined as vicious is punishable by no less than a $5000 fine and imprisonment for no less than 5 days.

MORE:

Pet medical insurance companies

Where to find affordable insurance in Arizona

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