We’ve all heard it, and in many neighborhoods, there are multiple instances: a dog’s constant barking after being ignored and left in the backyard. It’s likely that he just wants to be a part of his family and doesn’t care if he gets out or if he gets food. It’s unfortunate, but it happens. Some dog owners believe that leaving their dogs outside at all times is the best option.
There are many reasons, but none of them, in our opinion, are particularly compelling. Because they shed, some dogs are left outside because their owners want to keep their homes tidy. Because of destructive behavior or other poor behavior, other dogs are locked out. However, due to an allergy in the household, other dogs are left outside in the cold. Sadly, dog owners who don’t give their animals enough attention frequently abandon their canines outside. Some people find it easier to just keep their dogs outside, whether it’s because they’re unwilling or unable to train and socialize them or because they have irrational expectations of their dogs’ behavior. However, letting a dog out in the backyard can result in a number of undesirable behaviors in dogs, which may make the owner want to give the dog away. Among the possibilities are constant barking, destructive digging, chewing on furniture, hoses, sprinklers, and shrubs. Some dogs left outside extensively become aggressive or hostile.
Our opinion is that since dogs are pack animals, they will become part of a family’s pack once they are accepted.
We implore all pet owners and prospective pet owners to select a dog that is compatible with their way of life and will fit into their “pack.” “Getting a German Shepherd or other dog that sheds heavily is not a good idea if you want your house to be spotless, for example. Look for a smaller, more laid-back breed if you don’t have the time to train and exercise a large, active dog. Most importantly, it’s probably best to think about getting another pet if you’re not prepared to welcome a dog into your family with open arms and open doors. Not only is it unfair to the dog, but it’s also unfair to you. After all, we cherish dogs most for their company. A dog that lives away from you all the time won’t bring you much joy. Speak to your vet or a behavioralist if you currently own a dog that you have been keeping outside due to behavioral issues. If a member of your family is allergic and you keep a dog outside, consult an allergist. The best and happiest dogs are those who live with their owners’ families.
Your veterinarian is your best resource to ensure the health and welfare of your pets, so you should always visit or contact them if you have any questions or concerns.
Why Leaving Your Dog Outside is a Bad Idea
This is undoubtedly one of the most frequently asked questions I receive as a professional dog trainer during consultations. Many pet owners believe their dogs would rather play outside by themselves, but that isn’t always the case. The short answer is no; never leave your dog unattended outside. I’ll tell you why, and I think you’ll agree after I finish.
Keeping an eye on your dog in the backyard is preventative, and not overprotective, behavior. 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.
Best Way to Prevent Unwanted Behaviors
When dogs are left outdoors unattended, they can get into trouble quickly. Many dogs become lost because they’ve dug out from under their fence within seconds. Also, many accidentally walk through backyard gates unintentionally left open by service workers.
Incessantly barking dogs usually practice this behavior when left alone in the backyard, and it can quickly become a problem with neighbors. Fence fighting behavior can start abruptly and will continue until someone is hurt—and this dog behavior is tough to manage once it starts. Some dogs are teased behind fences, which can certainly cause human aggression.
Numerous undesirable dog behaviors can occur in a matter of minutes, so it’s preferable to spend time with your dog to stop them before they start rather than attempting to correct them later. The key is prevention, which requires much less time than changing behavior. .
Dogs can eat sticks, stones and so many other harmful objects within seconds. Surgery is often required to remove ingested acorns, pinecones, pine straw, mulch and so forth, which can cost thousands of dollars and even your dog’s life.
Backyards may contain poisonous mushrooms, frogs and stinging insects, which become fatal within hours. If you’re outdoors with your dog, you can prevent your dog from chewing or ingesting harmful objects. If your dog is stung, you’re aware of the insect that stung your dog, so your veterinarian will be able to quickly save your dog’s life.
How
to Make Separation Easier
While leaving your dog alone for longer periods of time may be inevitable, there are some options you can take into account to make the process much less difficult for both you and your dog. For an average adult dog, 6 to 8 hours should be the absolute maximum amount of time you should leave your dog alone. There are some options you may take into consideration to make separation easier if your dog displays anxiety symptoms or engages in destructive behavior when left alone for extended periods.
FAQ
Is it OK to leave your dog outside all day?
Never leave your dog alone for an extended period of time, even overnight. The longer something goes untreated when something bad happens to your dog, like heatstroke or hypothermia, the worse it will be for him. Always make sure he has enough water and is not displaying any symptoms of a health problem.
Is it cruel to leave dog outside?
While keeping a pet outside in good weather is not cruel, dogs are pack animals that benefit from companionship and proximity to their owners. Therefore, it makes sense that they will be happiest when they are with their family. A dog that is only allowed outside is socially isolated and may howl or bark out of loneliness.
Can dogs be outside for 8 hours?
The majority of experts concur that adult dogs shouldn’t be left alone for longer than eight to ten hours, but some dogs, particularly those with small bladders, can’t endure that. DO prepare your dog before you go.
How long should a dog be outside every day?
Most dogs should get 30 minutes to 2 hours of exercise per day, but some breeds require more. Some breeds were created for more active lifestyles than others, and when used as companion dogs, they cannot perform the tasks for which they were bred.