60%
The percentage of dog attacks against children occur with dogs that are tethered.
BITE STATISTICS FOR CHAINED DOGS
Research consistently shows that tethered dogs are more prone to aggression and dangerous behaviors, primarily due to the confinement and inability to escape or interact with their environment in a healthy way. Here are some statistics that demonstrate the dangers of tethering:
Increased Risk of Aggression and Bites against adults & children:
Research from the National Canine Research Council (NCRC) shows that a significant proportion of fatal dog attacks involve dogs that were tethered or chained. The study found that 30-40% of fatal dog attacks involve dogs that were restrained by chains or tethers, compared to a much lower percentage of bites from non-tethered dogs.
The American Humane Association reports that chained dogs are 2.8 times more likely to bite a human compared to unchained dogs. This can be attributed to their inability to escape from uncomfortable situations or perceived threats, resulting in defensive behavior.
A study from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill identified that children are at an elevated risk of bites from tethered dogs. Dogs who are chained are often unable to retreat when a child or another person unknowingly approaches them too closely. This can result in attacks on children, with studies indicating that over 60% of dog bites involving children occur with dogs that are tethered.
Increased Risk of Aggression and Bites against other animals:
Tethered dogs are also more likely to bite other animals. A study published by the Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science found that dogs who are chained are more likely to be involved in conflicts with other pets in the household, particularly if they are unable to escape or defend themselves properly. This results in injuries to both the tethered dog and other animals, including pets that may be in the vicinity.
These statistics underscore the dangers of tethering dogs and the urgent need for safer, more humane alternatives. The long-term confinement and inability to move freely can cause physical, psychological, and behavioral harm to dogs, leading to a higher likelihood of aggressive incidents and bites. Free Range Paws Fencing aims to eliminate tethering as a solution by providing safer, more secure containment options for dogs in low-income communities, ensuring that both dogs and humans are protected from these risks.