by Janet Farricelli CPDT-KA

Created on: March 21, 2008   Last Updated: February 24, 2011

Ideally, in a perfect world, dogs deserve the warmth of a cozy home in happy company of their favorite people: their pack members.  However, modern life has abruptly changed us all, humans and animals, forcing us to live in smaller and smaller apartments, permanently shifting the lives of our canine companions. The end result are dogs left in a small home or apartment all day long, looking forward to their owner's return for companionship and exercise.

Keeping the dog outdoors, on the other hand, may allow the dog to exercise more since there are more stimulations outdoors, but then left outdoors all day, the dog feels deprived from contact with his pack and this may cause frustration and behavioral problems. Dogs left outdoors also tend to become more and more territorial and boredom may cause them to get into trouble. 

Should Dogs Be Indoor or Outdoor Pets?

The ideal solution? A nice home, with owners responsible enough for taking the dog out for walks and romps in the great outdoors. This way the dog gets the contact with its owners it deserves while getting  a good amount of exercise each day. If we could ask the dogs, for certain they would state that this option would be a bliss. They would get to enjoy napping by the fireplace on the long wintry nights, rejoice by spending quality time with their beloved owners, delight in having access to food, water and when behaving well, treats. Yet, they would be able to live how they were meant to live for centuries: running, jumping, sniffing, rolling and enjoying all the sights and sounds of nature. Yes, indeed, this would be a wonderful outdoor and indoor life.

Most dogs are born to be active, it is set deep withing their genes their willingness to run, play, sniff, explore. Not getting enough activity, lack of stimulation and being prone to boredom is a problem ready to happen. A dog limited to an apartment or tied up in a backyard is for sure not a happy dog .If you look at outdoor dogs, on the other hand, you rarely will see an overweight dog. Rather, you will mostly see a slim, active and happy dog. Outdoor dogs as well, seem to sleep less because they are more stimulated by smells, sights and sounds.

 Dogs were meant to be outdoors, stay active and lead a typical dog life as they did a long time ago when they were working dogs such as hunters and herders. Just take a look at indoor dogs. Chances are they will be bored and the boredom can easily translate into untypical dog behaviors

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