Is it cruel to leave a dog outside all day?
Madalyn Johns
2025-07-16 23:24:23
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Some dog-owners think the best place for their dogs is outside, all the time. Reasons vary, but in our opinion none of them are really all that good. Some dogs are left outside because they shed and their owners want to keep their houses clean. Other dogs are locked out because of destructive behavior or other bad behavior. And yet other dogs are left out in the cold because someone in the household is allergic to them. Sadly, often dogs are left outside by dog-owners that aren’t putting enough effort into their pets. But leaving a dog in the backyard can lead to a number of bad habits in dogs that might force the owner to want to give the dog away. Endless barking, destructive digging, chewing offurniture, hoses, sprinklers, and shrubs are some possibilities. Some dogs left outside extensively become aggressive or hostile.
Lucas Kirlin
2025-07-12 20:57:11
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The simple answer is no; you shouldn’t leave your dog outside unattended. Many pet owners assume hanging outside while their dogs play in the backyard is helicopter pet owner behavior. However, it’s best to hang out in your yard while your dog potties and plays. Of course, you can go indoors and grab a drink, but never leave your dog outside for longer than 5-10 minutes. When dogs are left outdoors unattended, they can get into trouble quickly. Dogs can eat sticks, stones and so many other harmful objects within seconds. If you’re outdoors with your dog, you can prevent your dog from chewing or ingesting harmful objects. If it’s too hot or cold for you to sit outdoors, then the weather is too extreme for your dog to sit outdoors too. An ounce of prevention prevents hours of changing behavior, so never leave your dog outside unattended. Bored dogs will find something to do if kept outside during the day or while you’re at work, which is never a good thing.
Pete Abshire
2025-07-07 20:45:49
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But I've been reading people think this is a cruel and horrible idea. But wouldn't it be more cruel to leave them cooped up inside/crated the whole day. The backyard is fairly large and he has undercover areas to escape to if it rains. He is only allowed in the main living room if he's inside, not the other areas of the house as they are not dog safe.
Newton Cormier
2025-06-24 05:39:11
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While your pet may love being outdoors and is well-trained, it doesn't mean they will be safe. There are many dangers that your dog will experience when they’re left alone outside, such as weather conditions, poisonous plants or chemicals, or attack by other animals. Your dog may also become lonely or bored being left outside. Without access to your home, dogs can overheat or even freeze to death. Never leave your dog unattended for long periods of time, this includes overnight. If something happens to your dog such as heatstroke or hypothermia, the longer it goes unattended the worse it will be for them. Consider your dog's emotions before leaving them outside for an extended period. Dogs are pack animals, and your human family is their new pack. They want to be close to you, and you enjoy their company as well. Allow your dog to explore the outdoors, but always keep your door open for them to return inside.
Dameon Kutch
2025-06-24 01:32:31
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A dog's physical, social and behavioural needs are very complex, and meeting these needs can be very hard, if not impossible, for dogs living outside. We understand that often, owners consider keeping their dogs outdoors because of behavioural problems that may seemingly prevent them from staying indoors. However, if you do choose to keep a dog outside, always take sensible safety precautions, and be alert to risks that may affect your dog outside. Most dogs cope well living outside if they have proper shelter, water, and protection from extreme weather. 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.