Should You Keep Your Dog Outdoors

Years ago, backyard dogs were quite common. They lived most of their lives in the yards of urban and suburban houses. However, dog owners’ knowledge about the dangers of leaving dogs outside unattended progressed. And, increasingly, more people have left the country to live in the city. As backyard dogs are slowly disappearing, more people are asking, ” should you keep your dog outdoors?”

Risks Involved in Keeping Your Dog Outdoors

Keeping your dog outdoors 24/7 poses a long list of possible risks. These include:

• exposure to poisonous plants,
• sharp garden maintenance tools,
• accumulation of toxic antifreeze,
• deadly pesticides and, occasionally,
• to revengeful neighbors.
• Even if your yard has a fence, wildlife such as snakes, yellow jackets, and coyotes can still get in and harm your pup.
• Small dogs are also frequently victims of birds of prey. Hawks and other birds of prey carry off small dogs every year.

• The Most Significant Determinant of Whether or Not You Should Keep Your Dog Outdoors

However, the most significant source of danger is, arguably, the weather. Remember that dogs are susceptible to heatstroke and to freezing to death just like humans. All breeds of dogs may suffer from the effects of winter temperatures. However, the breeds that are most at risk are short-haired dogs such as Weimaraners, Greyhounds, Chinese Crested and Chihuahua.

Hypothermia, which is known to be fatal, can easily occur in young, senior, and ill canines — Those afflicted display specific symptoms such as lethargy, shivering, and general lack of coordination. Once it progresses, a dog can fall into a coma or even to a quick death.

Saint Bernard in the snow

Some breeds thrive in cold weather and absolutely love playing in the snow. As long as their age or general health condition does not allow this and they have the option of choosing to come inside, this is fine. Breeds that were developed for outdoor work, especially in the colder climates do well outside in the winter, They usually do not fare so well outside in hot weather. Saint Bernards, Huskys, Malemutes, and other breeds fit into this category.

When it comes to warm temperatures, dangers also exist. This is especially true if your dog belongs to one of the brachycephalic or short-nosed breeds. These are breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs, Shih Tzu, and Boxers. Such dogs are most prone to suffering from heatstroke because their bodies are not equipped to release extra heat by way of panting. These are signs of hyperthermia or overheating.

Sharpei puppy on a red couch

Aside from those breeds, geriatric dogs are also quite susceptible to overheating. Symptoms of heatstroke may include drooling, reddening of the gums, and excessive panting. If not treated immediately, pets under extreme body heat can quickly die.

What Do The Experts Say About Keeping Your Dog Outdoors

For various reasons, experts often agree that it is best to raise dogs indoors. Many of them suggest that canines ought not to be left outdoors unattended and in the mercy of changing the weather, especially for long periods.  The operative word here is unattended. Owners keeping a close eye on their dogs and the weather are certainly not restricted to keeping their dogs indoors all the time.

As soon as temperatures drop under 4.4 degrees Celsius or 40 degrees Fahrenheit Experts suggest that puppies, most importantly short-haired ones, should be taken indoors. While thicker coated dogs are better to withstand cold conditions, they too need to be brought indoors as soon as your thermometer shows 17.7 degrees Celsius or zero degrees Fahrenheit. s

Healthy dogs can tolerate a reasonable amount of heat, especially if there is a shady area available to them. This is, unless you have a dog that is a heavy coated breed such as a Chow, rough-coated Saint Bernard, or Husky.

It is unlikely that shade will ever be adequate to keep them cool in warm temperatures. They may need a wading pool in which to cool off and always need plenty of cool water to maintain proper body temperature.

Canine Keeping cool in a pool

Summer Time In The South

Some owners shave their dogs in the summer to keep them more comfortable. If you do this, be sure the groomer is aware that the dog will be outside. It’s important to make sure your animal is not in the sun too much or they may get sunburned.

 This is even more important if you reside in the Southeastern United States where humid and hot temperatures are common. These conditions quickly become unbearable for man and beast. Another thing of importance is that some dogs, no matter their breed or age, have bodies that are more responsive to the effects of harsh weather. Consult your veterinarian for advice specific to your dog.  

Sometimes you do not have any other choice but to keep your pup outdoors. If this is the case, at the very least, take extra care in providing for their well being. Provide adequate shelter for heat, cold, rain and snow and make sure that food and sufficient water are available. 

I must add that there are some breeds and certain individual dogs that thrive on being outdoors. As long as proper housing is available, good food, water and shade are provided, they should be safe. Of course, all dogs need to get plenty of exercise, love, and attention. There is no reason to feel guilty about their being “outside” dogs.

You are the best person to make that determination. No one knows or loves your dog as you do.

Photos courtesy of Pixabay