As descendents of wolves, dogs are members of packs. Through domestication we have bred dogs to be dependent on us for all of their needs—even socialization. We become their pack and they are very happy and well-adjusted if they know their position in our family. Sad but true, some dog owners believe that dogs, especially larger dogs, should be ‘outdoor only’ pets. At the Humane Society of Missouri, we believe that dogs of all sizes are happier, healthier and certainly safer when they can spend the majority of their time inside with their families.

Dogs have a deep need to be social, just as we do. Here are some ways that relinquishing dogs to outdoors, or even worse, to the end of a chain can affect their behavior and certainly their well-being;

SOCIALIZATION: Dogs that spend most of their time alone may demonstrate fearful, aggressive or overactive behavior toward family members or strangers because they have never learned manners.

SAFETY: Outside dogs could escape from the yard, become lost, stolen, poisoned or become the victim of overt cruelty.

BEHAVIOR PROBLEMS: Dogs left alone for long periods of time can become bored, lonely and frustrated. As a result, they may dig or bark excessively. They could show symptoms of boredom by self-mutilation (often the case when chained), excessive licking or scratching that can result in hair loss and inflamed skin.

PROTECTION: An ‘outside’ dog does not provide real protection to your family. Dogs that spend most of their time outdoors may be friendly to any stranger that pets, feeds or gives them attention. For dogs that are rarely allowed indoors, it is difficult for him to distinguish between family, friends, and uninvited ‘guests.’

If you must leave your dog outdoors for an extended time, please provide him with the following:
• An insulated shelter with a wind-proof opening. Contact the Humane Society of Missouri for information on building a well-constructed dog house.
• Access to shade during hot weather. All dogs need shade. Heavy coated dogs such as huskies and chows are more susceptible to the heat.
• Fresh food and water every day. A tip-proof bowl in the summer is essential.
• Interactive play time daily. Spend time with your pet. A daily walk is mutually beneficial.
• An escape-proof fence with a locked gate.
• Lots of ‘busy’ toys.