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Originally Posted by juliaw04  Where I am originally from (Rush Center, Kansas--western Kansas) it is very rare to find an "inside" dog. Most people have large dogs...labs, blue heelers, australian shephards, golden retrievers, etc. I myself think that if the dog is big enough that it's tail can knock things off the coffee table or look over the dining room table, it doesn't need to be in the house. Don't get me wrong, I would never put a dog outside and then forget they're there, not giving them any attention. All outside dogs that I personally know are very well taken care of. I have never seen a dog that hasn't enjoyed being outside, being able to run and spend time along side the owner thats working outside. That said, I agree, outside dogs should not spend their time penned up or chained to something. If they are kept outside, they need shelter and lots of loving attention! |
I agree with you....and many dogs were not bred to be companion animals, although that is what we use them for. I think many times we view things emotionally, instead of looking at the reality of what the DOG enjoys, not us. I have two pugs, and if you've ever read anything about pugs you know that everything says they are inside only dogs. Mine would go crazy if they were inside all the time. They LOVE being outside....so we have a secure, generous-sized pen with a warm doghouse, a sheltered area, lots of toys, etc. I am careful that they don't get too hot or cold. This summer we will make our whole yard secure so they can have the yard. They are inside in inclement weather, and evening and night. I would love them to be inside all the time. But that's my preference, not theirs.
There are a lot of people in my area who keep their outside dogs chained. I hate this. But there is a big difference in keeping a dog chained up outside, and having an outside dog. I have seen a lot (and grown up with) of dogs, particularly bigger dogs, that are happier inside than out.