There are no state-wide laws regarding the number of dogs you can own in Alaska, but some municipalities have special rules if you own three or more dogs over the age of three months.

Known as The Last Frontier, it is safe to assume there is a lot of unknown when it comes to the third least populated state of

Alaska

. It’s far, gigantic, and rich in beautiful natural features—these things we know. But with land double the size of Texas, and all the mystery that falls over the wild territory, we’re sure you have questions.

If you have ever asked yourself how many dogs you can legally own here, then you’re in luck!

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Does Alaska have laws limiting how many dogs you can own?

Alaska does not have any state-wide laws limiting the number of dogs you can own. The vastly remote and rural land allows for uncapped ownership so long as you can care for all of them.

There are some rules in more populated municipalities, however. If the city ordinance calls for it and you fall under the specified parameters, you will have to file for a kennel license. Below are the possible types of licenses you must register for if your city requires them:

Kennel license: having more than three dogs over the age of three months

Kennel license, commercial: having four or more dogs over the age of four months with the intent to board, breed, and sell

Kennel license, private: having four or more dogs over the age of four for private ownership and enjoyment

Inquire within your specific municipality to receive the exact regulations for your area. If your city does not require a kennel license, then you can care for as many dogs as your heart desires without registering or filing.

Are there any dog breeds outlawed in Alaska?

With over 1,100 different wildlife species roaming within Alaskan borders, it should come as no surprise that there are no outlawed dog breeds in the state. There are, however, regulations when dealing with a “dangerous dog.”

In Alaska, dogs that met the following criteria are considered dangerous:

An unprovoked dog that has bitten or attacked a human

A vicious dog running at large

A dog that habitually bites or annoys wildlife or birds

If a vicious dog is viewed as a threat and is running at large, any person can legally kill it. As for dogs that bite or annoy wild animals, proper notice has to be given to the owner so they can restrain the dog. Failure to comply with this notice can result in the lawful killing of the dog as well.

MORE:

Car loan in Alaska

What are leash laws in Alaska?

There is no state-wide law regarding dog leashes, but certain municipalities have their own rules. For example, in Anchorage, the law under

Title 17

requires that any person who owns a domestic animal must control it at all times.

Title 17 defines control in the following ways:

The ability to simultaneously monitor, direct, and restrict an animal’s movement

Using a secure leash to restrain the dog

Visual and audible commands that the dog responds to accurately and promptly

Leash laws look out for bystanders, as well as the dog, because there is no telling what can happen if a dog is unleashed in public. The only exception to the rule is if the dog is engaged in an activity that would be restricted by a leash while in an area commonly associated with that activity—think hunting in the woods. The activity also must be conducted in a manner that minimizes impact on the general public.

Penalties for breaking dog laws in Alaska

Different municipalities respond differently to breaking dog laws, as there is no state-wide legislature.

In the city of Kenai for example, all dog bite incidents must be reported by calling (907) 283-7353. Unvaccinated dogs that bit a person must quarantine for ten days in a city-regulated shelter. If the dog is up to date on their shots, however, they may quarantine in the owner’s home at the discretion of an Animal Control Officer.

Dog bites can also be reported to Alaska State Troopers, as well as Animal Control facilities in the city the incident took place.

MORE: 8 steps to a perfect road trip with your dog

Where to find affordable insurance in Alaska

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