I personally would have a big dog inside most of the time. I do understand though that larger dogs (especially if it's their nature), need to be outside more often and/or for longer periods of time, that's if they chose to be. I wouldn't force them out there but I would have to have a big dog constantly couped up in my small house. They would need a lot more exercise then my yorkies. Definitely not in the the rain or non-appropriate weather. I would even want my big dog to be my lapdog just as much as my yorkies..
If people do chose to do it, I would hope they have the best setup possible for them and give them just as much attention as they would any inside dog. I am bothered when I drive or walk by someone's house and I see a big dog, chained to a tree with a little dog house, empty water bowl that they can't even reach anymore, etc.....That's what I would have a problem with.