As a dog lover and someone who’s spent 15+ years caring for these amazing companions, I’ve had many people ask me: “Can you keep a dog outside?” This question isn’t as simple as it seems, and I wanna share some important insights that might help you make the best choice for your furry friend.
The Legal Side: Yes, But With Conditions
First things first – according to the RSPCA, keeping dogs outside isn’t illegal. However, there’s a big BUT here. If you do choose to keep your dog outdoors, the environment must be suitable and follow the dog welfare guidelines established in England and Wales.
I’ve seen too many outdoor setups that just don’t cut it for our four-legged friends Let’s be real – dogs have complex needs that go way beyond just food and water
Why Dogs Shouldn’t Live Outdoors (Usually)
The RSPCA doesn’t necessarily agree with keeping dogs outside, and honestly, neither do I. Here’s why:
Dogs have complex physical, social, and behavioral needs that are incredibly difficult (sometimes impossible) to satisfy in an outdoor-only living situation.
Many of my clients who initially wanted outdoor dogs eventually realized their pets were missing out on the family bond that makes dog ownership so special. Dogs are pack animals – they crave our company!
Common Reasons People Consider Outdoor Housing
I’ve worked with many families who considered keeping their dogs outside due to
- Destructive behavior indoors
- Toilet training difficulties
- Shedding concerns
- Allergies in family members
If you’re facing these challenges please don’t rush to make your dog an “outside dog.” Instead
- Talk to your vet first to rule out health issues
- Consider consulting a professional dog behaviorist
- Look into training solutions for specific problems
These approaches often resolve issues without banishing your pup to the yard.
Requirements for Outdoor Dog Housing
If you’ve thought it through and still need to keep your dog outside, here’s what you MUST provide to meet welfare standards:
Proper Kennel
Your outdoor dog needs a kennel that’s:
- Large enough for separate sleeping and activity areas
- Spacious enough for your dog to walk, run, and wag their tail
- Big enough for them to play, stand on hind legs, stretch, and lie down comfortably
- Not touching other animals or structures
A tiny doghouse won’t cut it! Your dog needs space to move around freely.
Weather Protection
Dogs need shelter from:
- Rain
- Wind
- Direct sunlight
They should always be able to move to a more comfortable spot depending on weather conditions. And remember – a dog crate is NEVER suitable as permanent outdoor housing.
Temperature Control
This is super important and often overlooked. Outdoor housing should:
- Maintain temperatures above 10°C (50°F)
- Keep temperatures below 26°C (79°F)
- Include safe heating and/or cooling systems (no exposed wires!)
- Be monitored daily for temperature changes
I once helped a neighbor who didn’t realize how cold his dog’s outdoor kennel got at night – the poor pup was shivering every morning! We installed proper insulation and a safe heating system, which made a huge difference.
Avoid Tethering or Chaining
The RSPCA strongly advises against tethering or chaining dogs except for very brief periods. Why? Because:
- It can cause physical injuries
- It severely restricts natural behavior
- It damages a dog’s psychological wellbeing
I’ve seen the heartbreaking results of dogs kept on chains – they develop repetitive behaviors, become fearful or aggressive, and lose their natural joy. Please don’t do this to your dog!
Health and Wellbeing Essentials
Outdoor dogs need:
- Constant access to clean drinking water (use sturdy bowls that won’t tip)
- A well-balanced, nutritious diet
- Daily health checks for injuries or illness
- Regular veterinary care
Social Needs
This is where many outdoor dog situations fall short. Your dog needs:
- Daily exercise
- Play opportunities
- Regular interaction with people and other animals
- Appropriate company to prevent loneliness
- Mental stimulation to prevent boredom
Never leave your dog alone long enough to become distressed. Watch for warning signs like excessive barking, howling, whining, panting, hiding, or aggression.
When to Worry About Outdoor Dogs
If you see a dog kept outside during extreme weather conditions, it’s natural to worry. Most healthy dogs can handle moderate outdoor living if they have proper shelter, water, and protection from extreme weather.
However, if you’re concerned about a dog’s welfare, the RSPCA recommends visiting their “report a concern” page. Just be aware that the RSPCA has limited legal powers – they can’t simply seize animals they feel are inadequately housed unless welfare laws are clearly being broken.
My Personal Experience
I’ve had both indoor and outdoor dogs throughout my life. My collie mix, Bear, lived primarily outdoors on our farm for 13 years (with a heated kennel and free access to our enclosed porch). He was happy and healthy because:
- He had appropriate shelter for all weather
- We spent several hours with him daily
- He had room to run and play
- His social needs were met by regular interaction with us and other farm animals
However, my current dogs live indoors with me. I’ve found that the bond is stronger and their behavior is better when they’re integrated into family life.
Better Alternatives to Full-Time Outdoor Living
If you’re considering an outdoor dog, here are some compromises that might work better:
- Indoor/outdoor balance: Let your dog spend days outside (if weather appropriate) but bring them in at night
- Designated indoor spaces: Create dog-friendly zones in your home with appropriate flooring and furniture
- Outdoor time with supervision: Regular outdoor playtime while you’re present
- Dog runs with access to indoors: A secure outdoor area connected to a dog door
Final Thoughts: It’s About Quality of Life
The question shouldn’t just be “Can you keep a dog outside?” but rather “Should you keep a dog outside?” and “What’s best for this specific dog?”
Some working breeds with thick coats might adapt better to outdoor living than others. A Siberian Husky might be more comfortable in a well-designed outdoor setup than a short-haired Chihuahua or an anxious rescue dog.
Remember that dogs are social creatures who’ve evolved alongside humans for thousands of years. They crave our company and thrive when they’re part of our daily lives.
If your considering keeping your dog outside, please think carefully about whether you can truly meet ALL their needs – physical, social, and emotional. If not, it might be better to look for indoor solutions or consider whether dog ownership is right for your current situation.
Resources for Dog Owners
The RSPCA offers excellent resources for dog owners:
- Caring for your dog – expert information on dogs’ needs and keeping them healthy
- Behavioral advice – how to help your dog behave well
- Puppy buying guide – how to find a healthy, happy puppy from a responsible breeder
No matter where your dog lives, what matters most is that they’re loved, well-cared for, and have all their needs met. That’s what being a responsible pet parent is all about!
Have you had experience with outdoor dogs? What worked for you? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
Disclaimer: This article provides general advice based on RSPCA guidelines. Always consult with your veterinarian about your specific dog’s needs and living situation.
If you’re keeping a dog outside
A dogs 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. For example, a dog may be destructive or difficult to toilet-train. In such cases, you should talk to your vet to rule out any potential health issues. They may refer your dog to a behavioural expert.
We suggest considering these options first to resolve any issues you may be having with your dog. 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.
Here are some things you need to consider:
- A suitable outdoor dog kennel – this should be large enough to allow separate sleeping and activity areas. Its very important that your dog can comfortably walk, run and wag their tail within the walls of their kennel, and can play, stand on their hind legs, stretch and lie down without touching another animal or kennel.
- Shelter and protection from rain, wind and sunlight – dogs should always be able to move where they feel more comfortable, away from direct sunlight and into the shade. Dog crates are never a suitable permanent environment for your pet.
- Temperature and ventilation – heating and/or automatic cooling and ventilation may also be necessary to keep temperatures above 10°C and below 26°C. While this isnt required, you should do everything possible to maintain your dog’s health and welfare while outside. Heating or cooling systems need to be safe – no trailing cables, for example. We also advise monitoring the temperature daily.
- Tethering or restraining dogs – we believe that dogs should not be tethered or chained, except for very short periods, as restraining a dog in this way can lead to injuries and also restrict normal behaviour, which can be very damaging to the dogs wellbeing.
- Health and wellbeing needs – provide constant access to clean drinking water and a well-balanced diet. Use a sturdy water bowl and check regularly for refills. We also advise that you check your dog daily for any signs of injury or illness.
- 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.
Dont 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.
Worried about a dog being kept outside in extreme weather
Most dogs cope well living outside if they have proper shelter, water, and protection from extreme weather. If youre concerned about a dog being kept outside in extreme weather, please visit our report a concern page.
Is it Okay to Have Just an Outside Dog
FAQ
Can a dog stay outside permanently?
Yes, it is possible to have a dog that lives outside and never comes inside the house, but there are several important considerations to keep in mind: Breed Selection: Some dog breeds are more suited for outdoor living than others.
Can you legally leave your dog outside?
Yes it is legal to let them stay outside. There are some states that want them to be fenced in. There are some states that think that they should have a house and definitely all states want water and food for them. I personally think anybody that makes their dogs stay outside permanently. Don’t need a dog.
Is it okay for dogs to be outside?
Are dogs happier living outside?
Country dogs are happier, study finds Country dogs are happier than their urban relatives, according to a recent study conducted by the University of Helsinki and published in Scientific Reports.