[lilstar63100]

i think one thing we have to remember is that these are dogs we are talking about, and although we think of them as family they are animals. some dogs it is actually not good to keep them inside at all times. the stimulation of birds flying by, chasing bugs, laying in the sun is much better for a dog then laying in a house all day long. laying in an unkept yard chained to a tree all day is by no means a good way to keep a dog. but having a dog outside (as long as they are getting the right attention and care) is not torture. i have an akita and a pointer who are outside all day. they come in at night to lay with us and watch tv, but most of the time end up wanting back outside after a half hour. (my akita gets over heated if shes inside for too long)

it breaks my heart when i hear about people who buy a dog, throw it in the back yard and only throw food out to it every day. but that doesnt mean that ALL back yard dogs are treated this way. as long as theyre getting plenty of attention, and the right care i dont think theres anythign wrong with it.