Dog rules in Albuquerque
Albuquerque's animal code sets a short leash, a household limit and a strict view of control.
At a glance
| Topic | Albuquerque rule |
|---|---|
| Leash | 8 feet or less, held by a person able to control the animal |
| Voice commands | Do not count as control |
| Pet limit | Six companion animals, no more than four dogs |
| Unaltered dogs | Intact animal permit, $150 |
Leash and control
The Albuquerque code section 9-2-1-4 (definitions) defines at large as an animal not contained by a secure fence, facility or enclosure, in a ventilated vehicle, or on a leash no longer than eight feet held by a responsible person, and says verbal commands do not constitute control. The Albuquerque leash reminder says the city can fine civil violations starting at $200 for a first offense.
Limits and permits
The Albuquerque code section 9-2-4-3 (animal limits) says no one may own more than six companion animals, no more than four of them dogs, without a Multiple Companion Animal Site Permit, and that an intact dog over six months needs a permit. The Albuquerque HEART ordinance page puts the intact permit at $150, bars chaining an animal for more than one hour in 24, and says residents no longer need a city pet license but must keep dogs vaccinated, microchipped and spayed or neutered.
What it says about the dog
Because voice control does not count, a protection dog that works off leash still has to be fenced or leashed in public. Ask any provider how that fits your property.
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