by Betty Mayes

Created on: April 05, 2009   Last Updated: October 31, 2011

People should not have dogs in apartments without yards. Plain and simple.  People have had dogs as pets since both have been around. However, sometimes pet owners fail to realize the fact that dogs have needs and rights too. These needs and rights should be recognized.  Here are several legitimate reasons that dogs should live in places with yards.

1.  Exercise-this is necessary for any living, breathing creature. Being cooped up in a small apartment is near as bad as putting the dog in a cage. There is not near enough room for any dog, large or small, to get the amount of exercise necessary to maintain the pet's health. Not enough exercise puts dogs at risk of the same diseases as humans. Heart disease, obesity related disorders,and joint and mobility issues. Do these animals not have the right to have and maintain their health? Unless you're taking your dog for a trip to the park or walking elsewhere EVERY DAY, then your dog is'nt getting the necessary exercise.

2. Easing tension and releasing energy-Dogs get tired of being indoors, just as any human would. A change of scenery would be nice. Dogs need to release tension and energy also. Running in a yard does just that. Also, alot of breeds will bore more easily and need more stimulation, such as Chihuahuas and Jack Russel Terriers. Having a yard gives pets the opportunity for that also. As a human, do you not occasionally get bored and have to get away?

3.  Other people's property-Rental apartments are just that, other people's property. If a dog is pent up in an apartment, regardless of breed, He/she can and will probably get restless. Not being able to get out and burn off excess energy, your pet may damage carpet,trim, wall, etc. Would you want to be owner to a rental unit given the potential for damage?

4.  Your personal property-Again, being cooped up in an apartment without a yard, dogs need that space and variety to release tension and boredom. Broken lamps,torn furniture, other damage may be possibilities. Scold and animal for breaking something when it's not their fault they have no outlet,how right is that?

5.  Poop convenience-Taking a dog to the yard is alot more convenient than having to walk elsewhere for a poop. Puppy pads are expensive. I have never seen a dog go poop in a litter box. Have you? Dog with a yard is sounding better and better,huh?

6.  Time convenience-Not having to go elsewhere for the dog to walk, will save your valuable time. Would it not be alot more convenient to just open a door to a yard. Do you not value your time?

7.  Save money-Puppy pads are expensive. Gas, if you have to drive to a park, is expensive. Paying for property damage that your dog may do to the apartment could be expensive. Court costs from property damage could be expensive. Vet bills, from the dog's health suffering from a lack of exercise, may be quite expensive.

In conclusion, any pet you have has basic needs and rights. These rights and needs should be respected.  No, people should not have dogs in apartments without yards. It is near impossiblity and inconvenient to live in an apartment without a yard and keep your dog as healthy and happy as they should and have a right to be.

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