Poland bans permanent tethering of dogs and cats after president signs 'chain bill' amendment

The signing

President Karol Nawrocki signed the amendment to the Animal Protection Act on 24 July 2026, the President's Office announced. The so-called chain bill will take effect 12 months after its publication in the Journal of Laws. Nawrocki explained in a video message that the new version was better prepared and had the support of the agricultural self-government, unlike the first draft which he vetoed in December 2025.

I clearly stated at the time that the goal of protecting animals was the right one, but the law had to be capable of being implemented.

What the ban covers

The new law prohibits the permanent tethering of dogs and cats. The ban applies to chains and any other form of restraint used as a long-term method of keeping the animal. However, temporary tethering remains allowed for specific purposes such as transport, exhibitions, competitions, veterinary procedures, and grooming. Short-term incidental tying outside the animal's usual place of residence is also permitted provided it does not harm the animal's welfare. Walking a dog on a leash is not affected.

Rules for outdoor pens and shelters

When a dog cannot roam freely due to lack of fencing or because it poses a danger to people or other animals, it may be kept in a pen. The pen must be spacious enough to allow the dog to move freely and meet its natural needs. At least two sides of the pen must be open to light and air, and the structure must be stable. Owners are required to provide daily exercise outside the pen suited to the dog's age, health, and behavioural needs. Dogs kept outdoors or in unheated rooms must have a wooden or wood-based doghouse with thermal insulation, protecting them from weather and raised off the ground. If several dogs share a pen, each must have its own shelter.

Background and the 2025 veto

The path to the new law began with an earlier version that parliament passed in 2025. President Nawrocki vetoed that bill, calling it poorly drafted, excessively restrictive, and financially burdensome for citizens. His objection forced the government and parliament to work on a revised text, which was adopted by the Sejm on 3 July 2026. The final version incorporates exemptions and clearer standards that won backing from farming organisations.

The state cannot turn concern for animal welfare into yet another financial burden on citizens. Today, we are receiving a better bill, one that has the support of bodies such as the agricultural self-government.

Other legislative actions

Alongside the chain bill, President Nawrocki signed four other pieces of legislation on the same day. A law on tourist services introduces voluntary vouchers to protect travel agencies from liquidity crises and safeguard clients. A law on artificial intelligence systems establishes a supervisory framework for AI in Poland and allows SMEs to safely test innovative solutions. Amendments to drug addiction treatment will expand substitution therapy access and close loopholes exploited by synthetic drug makers. The oncology network law aims to cut bureaucracy and improve electronic patient records and medical consultations.

The president declined to sign the windfall tax on liquid fuel sales, sending it to the Constitutional Tribunal for review. He cited serious doubts about its compliance with the constitutional ban on retroactive laws and warned that the tax could be passed on to consumers, raising fuel and food prices.