ANIMAL CONTROL LAWS in the City of Bend

General:  Deschutes County has one of the highest per capita rates of dog owners in Oregon.  From small lap dogs to larger working dogs, the entire spectrum of canine ownership can be found in the County.  The City of Bend is no exception.  As population density increases, so do the responsibilities and accountability of dog owners. In the past when human and dog populations were smaller, owners could do many things that have now been restricted due, in part, to sheer numbers.  The following guidelines are meant to help owners and their canine friends.

Leash Laws:  Bend requires that all dogs be on leashes, harnesses or other types of control devices.  Bend Parks and Recreation is working on off leash parks, but to date, no parks or open spaces within Bend City limits are considered off leash.  These laws are in effect at all times in all places within City limits.

Dogs and Events:  Special events such as Festivals, music events and other public gatherings require that dogs be restricted from these events.  Although Fido may do well with people and other dogs, these events with the large crowds and other animals can make the most placid dog become aggressive.  One dog is a pet, two or more dogs become a pack.  "My dog never bothers anyone" is heard quite often.  That may be true but in strange and sometimes hectic environments, people and animals may act unpredictably.

Barking Dogs:  The occasional woof or two is of little consequence.  City Codes cover the frequent or prolonged noise of chronic barking dogs.  Many owners do not realize their dog barks when they are gone unless a neighbor tells them or a note is found on their door from Animal Control advising them of it.  Prolonged barking is one of the most common calls received by law enforcement.   The operative words are "prolonged" and/or "chronic".

Dogs at Large:  Any dog leaving the property of its owner is considered an at large dog.  Dogs must be in the confines of their property or, if off property, leashed. 

Dog Attacks:  The owner of a dog that bites a human or other animal is liable for medical and civil actions that may be brought by the person or animal attacked.  Children instinctively want to pet the nice doggie.  Too often, the child may be a bit energetic in their attempts thus aggravating the dog.  Here again, Fido may be a normally passive animal but when confronted with a different environment may, and in many cases does, react by instinct.  Dogs are not permitted to chase or attack wildlife.  If a dog attacks farm animals such as sheep or cows, the dog owner is responsible for all damages.  In severe cases, the herd owner may put down the attacking dog.

The exceptions to these guidelines are for working dogs such as police and guide dogs.  The City Codes covering animals are 5.250 through 5.290 and 7.371