A breakaway chain having a breakaway connector and first and second chain portions is provided. The breakaway connector includes a first opening is defined between a first wall portion and a second wall portion spaced away from the first wall portion. A first flexible gripping member extends from the first wall portion towards the second wall portion. A second opening is defined between a third wall portion and a fourth wall portion spaced away from the third wall portion. A second flexible gripping member extends from the third wall portion towards the fourth wall portion. The first chain portion has a first chain link. The first chain link inserts into the first opening and engages the first flexible gripping member. The second chain portion has a second chain link. The second chain link inserts into the first opening and engages the second flexible gripping member.