Is it cruel to leave a dog alone outside?

Leaving a dog outside can be very hard, if not impossible, for dogs living outside to meet their physical, social and behavioural needs. We understand that often, owners consider keeping their dogs outdoors because of behavioural problems that may seemingly prevent them from staying indoors. Don't let your dog become lonely or bored, and never leave them alone long enough to become distressed. Signs of a distressed dog included barking, howling or whining excessively, as well as panting, hiding and/or showing aggression. Most dogs cope well living outside if they have proper shelter, water, and protection from extreme weather. Dogs should always be able to move where they feel more comfortable, away from direct sunlight and into the shade. Tethering or restraining dogs can lead to injuries and also restrict normal behaviour, which can be very damaging to the dog's wellbeing. Making sure your dog has appropriate company is an important consideration for outdoor dogs.

Dogs are capable of feeling quite a range of emotions, and being left out there in the backyard and excluded from life — even down South, where it’s warmer — is not only dangerous to them; it’s cruel. People who are always alone are lonely, so why wouldn’t a dog be lonely too. Dogs need the freedom to exercise, an adequate diet, sufficient water, and love and affection. They’re not so different from people when you think about it. Outdoor Risks Dogs who are chained and left for hours on end run the risk of accidentally strangling themselves on their chains. On cold days they can freeze to death, and on hot days they can suffer heatstroke just as a person would. Picture it for a moment: You’re living in the backyard with almost no human contact.