Some states have statewide dog leash laws. These laws are referred to as "running at large statutes." Many states do not have statewide leash laws, but counties, cities, towns, and municipalities have laws that determine when a dog must be leashed and not "running at large." These leash laws sometimes require dogs to be registered and wear an identification tag.
In West Virginia, there is no statewide leash law, commonly known as a 'running at large statute.' Instead, leash laws are determined by local ordinances at the county, city, or municipal level. These local regulations dictate when and where a dog must be leashed to prevent them from 'running at large.' Dog owners in West Virginia should check with their local government to understand the specific leash laws applicable to their area. Additionally, some localities may require dog registration and mandate that dogs wear identification tags. It's important for dog owners to be aware of and comply with these local ordinances to ensure the safety of their pets, the public, and to avoid potential legal consequences.