Local rules
What professional dog walkers in Austin are expected to know — in plain language, with the actual citations.Verified by the Top Dog SF team · September 2026
Austin Code 3-4-1(A) requires an owner OR HANDLER to keep a dog under restraint, except at the places listed in 3-4-4. And restraint has a definition: 3-1-1(16) means a secure enclosure or DIRECT PHYSICAL CONTROL by leash, cord, chain or similar. Direct physical control — the code does not offer voice control as an alternative anywhere. 3-4-1(B) adds that a person holding a dog on a leash shall keep it under control at all times.
Austin City Code 3-4-1(A), 3-4-1(B); 3-1-1(16) · official source
Texas requires current rabies vaccination for every dog, enforced locally through the Austin Animal Center, and current rabies vaccination is required to use Austin's off-leash areas. There's no statewide dog licence scheme on top, so the rabies tag is the document that matters. Confirm it before the first walk.
Tex. Health & Safety Code ch. 826; Austin Parks off-leash requirements
The full pack — plus state and U.S.-wide baselines and an assessment localized to Austin — is included with the Certified Professional Dog Walker.
Get certified — with Austin rules included →This is educational guidance for dog-care professionals, not legal advice. Rules change — always confirm with the official source before relying on a rule.