There are a lot of factors to consider before buying or adopting a dog. Especially noteworthy, some dogs are better suited for the indoors while others do better outdoors. While dog owners differ in their preferences, it is important for all to think in terms of the wellbeing of the dog when deciding on its habitat. Listed below are the advantages and disadvantages of keeping a dog indoors and outdoors.
Typical dogs that are kept indoors include Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus and Poodles. The advantages of a dog living indoors include a closer bond between the dog and the owner since the owner can constantly interact with and be more in tune to the dog’s needs; indoor dogs are protected from cold or harsh weather which is ideal in instances where they have fears of thunderstorms; they are protected from other vicious dogs that live in the neighborhood; they have a lesser chance of being bitten by ticks and fleas that cause them to scratch a lot; and they don’t need to be neutered. It is ideal for owners to keep dogs indoors when they have lots of space in their homes.
Keeping a dog indoors also has its disadvantages. Many indoor owners can relate to having to house train their dogs to keep them from chewing on shoes and furniture and potty train them as well as assign them to designated areas of the house such as a large dog pen. Also, it is more difficult to leave them home alone because of the bond that they share with the owner. Oftentimes home owners take indoor dogs with them when they run errands and leave them in their vehicles for a short period of time. When this is not the case, the owner must find a pet sitter or make family arrangements so that the dog is never alone. In addition, some dogs can leave foul odors on clothes that they make contact with and even worse shed hairs that are a nuisance to people with allergies.
A number of owners find it more convenient to keep their dogs outdoors. Common outdoor dogs include Labrador Retrievers, Collies that became popular from the classic sitcom Lassie, German Shepherds, Pit Bulls, and Doberman Pinschers. The advantages of a dog living outdoors include protection of property from trespassers or thieves, more space to run and to play, no need for house training, more sunlight and fresh air, and ideal when dogs are vicious and young children are around.
On the other hand, the disadvantages include owners having more responsibilities such as providing the dog with vaccinations since it could be bitten by a wild animal and contract Rabies; buying powders and sprays that eliminate itching from flea bites; keeping it well-hydrated during hot weather; ensuring that it has a warm doghouse during cold and harsh weather; and getting it neutered. Many of these requirements are very expensive.
Overall, when considering whether to keep a dog indoors or outdoors, owners must consider its survival ability. This is based on the breed of the dog, its age, and its demeanor. It is critical for owners to know the characteristics of a dog when choosing the ones that suit their preferences such as having a dog that will guard (outdoors) or one that will serve as a companion (indoors). Most of all, owners must be realistic about what their lifestyle affords.
