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Dogs: An Indoor or Outdoor Pet?

Talk about dogs as pets and the question of where they should reside will undoubtedly arise early in the conversation and provoke many debates.

I grew up in a family that raised and showed dogs, and naturally we had a kennel where our dogs lived. Compared to the existence of many outside dogs, our kennel dogs had a wonderful life. They were not chained to a post nor did they have a corner of the yard to claim as their bed.

Our kennel was the size of a two car garage, had windows on several sides and the back and was finished inside with pine paneling. I created a place for each of the champions with a framed picture and some of their winning ribbons which designated what and when they won.

There were outdoor runs on the back of the building, as well as on one side. Each run had a doggie door which allowed the dogs to leave at will. Inside was a pen with a raised platform and doggie bed. Water dishes were kept inside to maintain clean and cool water.

An enormous apple tree shaded several of the runs while pines and maples guarded the rear. All these trees also helped cool the kennel and the runs, thereby creating a comfortable environment.

Because we lived in snow country, the kennel was heated during winter months for the dogs' comfort and to prevent the water lines from freezing.

In short, these dogs had all the comforts of home, except one. They did not have human companionship most of the day and night. Probably they did not suffer in the usual sense, but we all felt as though we were depriving them by keeping them in the kennel. We frequently played with the dogs, petted them and, of course, spent many hours in the kennel grooming them.

It did not matter that someone opened the inside doggie doors in the morning, and provided clean bedding and water, as well as some friendly pats on the head. It did not matter that someone fed them in the late afternoon and gave them fresh water, nor did it matter that someone entered the kennel at night to lock up after saying good night to the dogs. When compared to the life of our house dog, the kennel dogs were not as fortunate.

Our house dog had the freedom of the house and went in and out to play with my girls. A few meat scraps from the dinner table naturally found their way to the indoor dog's food dish. When we had company, the house dog had many more hands reaching to pet her. When we settled ourselves in front of the television, the dog was there to accept pieces of cookie or some popcorn. Although I never allowed the dogs on the furniture, they were always nearby, happy to be a part of the family.

Because they were a dog and dogs love unconditionally, our house dogs were a natural part of our environment, not a pet but a loving addition to our family. That is the main difference between outside dogs and indoor dogs. If it is necessary to think about where you will house your dog, don't get one. If the subject of bringing a dog into your home creates an argument, don't get one.

Dogs have been loyal friends to humans for thousands of years and have proven their devotion. They deserve the best we can give them, including sharing our home and loving them accordingly.

Learn more about this author, Bette Wayne.
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