Is it okay for my dog to be outside all day?

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. Most dogs cope well living outside if they have proper shelter, water, and protection from extreme weather. 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. We suggest considering these options first to resolve any issues you may be having with your dog. 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. Social needs - always make sure your dog is able to behave normally and is provided with the opportunity for daily exercise, play and interaction with animals and people. Making sure your dog has appropriate company is an important consideration for outdoor dogs.

Dogs are pack animals, and once they are welcomed into a family, humans become their pack. 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. 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 furniture, hoses, sprinklers, and shrubs are some possibilities. Some dogs left outside extensively become aggressive or hostile.

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. While it’s not necessary to hover over their dogs like a helicopter, they should be aware of what their dogs are doing outdoors. 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 your dog is outdoors, sit outside and have a conversation with a friend on the phone or, even better, play a fun game with your dog. 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.

To end the suspense right away: yes, dogs can stay outside all day. However, we would like to draw your attention to the following points: Fence off your garden If you have chosen to leave your dog outside all day, make sure your garden is fully fenced and that there are no holes or gaps through which itcan escape. Leave some water out Dogs need to drink lots of water This is particularly the case for those who eat mainly dry food. Give it a comfortable shelter It is important that your dog has a place to rest, to hide, to protect itself from the rain, but also from the sun and the heat. Pay attention to its health and age: If you want to take a puppy or senior dog outside, keep in mind that they may not be able to handle large temperature changes or bad weather. Allowing your dog to spend the day outside when the weather is good (and even not so good) will always do it more good than staying cooped up at home all day. However, it is important to take your dog for a walk to satisfy its social needs and let it sniff new smells. Ultimately, yes you can leave your dog outside all day if you think it would be good for it.

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. In extreme cold or hot conditions, your dog should be able to seek refuge in your home to balance out the outside temperature. 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. Always check on them to make sure they have enough water and are not exhibiting any signs of health issues. 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.