The Backyard Dog Dilemma

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What You Should Know

*Dog Behavior of the Backyard Dog

The most widely held misconception about dogs is the belief that they will be healthy and happy living in the backyard only.  Nothing is further from the truth.  Current studies in psychology show that dogs isolated in backyards are highly likely to develop serious behavior problems.  Many will often result with a problem resulting in euthanasia for the animal.

Understanding Dogs 

Dogs are Pack Animals Thriving on Companionship

Dogs are Den Animals.  They like safe, quiet and secure places to sleep, hangout and rest.

More Behavior Problems When Left Outside.These  dogs are Harder to Train

Backyard dogs Are Not Guard Dogs (guard dogs are trained for that purpose)

.They Have a Higher Rate of Euthansia

Dogs are social, more so than humans.  Denied access to human living space can result in behavior and health problems.  YOU are the dogs' pack and he wants to be with his pack.  Forcing your dog to live outside with little or no human companionship is one of the most psychologically damaging things a pet owner can do to his dog. 

Never Tie or Chain Your Dog Up Outside 

WHY? 

1.      Dogs chained or tied outside suffer extreme frustration, which can result in hyperactivity and/or aggression against you, your family or friends.

2.      Dogs tied up cannot escape from other animals or people who mean to do them harm.

3. Dogs that are tied can easily become entangled and do bodily harm to themselves.If he tried to become a fence jumper he can hang himself. 

4.      DON'T kick him out because you think he is un-trainable, unruly or because it is good for him to be outside.  Instead, take the time to make him a part of your family, a part of your pack.

Who says tethering or chained dogs is inhumane?

The Humane Society of the United States, and numerous experts, U.S. Department (USDA) issued a statement in the July 2, 1996 Federal Register against tethering.

Aren't chained or tethered dogs treated well?

 These dogs suffer from sporadic feedings, overturned water bowls, inadequate veterinary care, and extreme temperatures.  During extreme heat they may not receive adequate water or protection from the sun.  People don't spend much time if any with them when it rains, is windy, too cold or too hot.They are often neurotic in behavior, which makes it difficult to approach them.  Chained dogs are very rarely given even the minimal affection.  They become more "part of the scenery" and can become easily ignored by their owners. 

Are the areas in which these dogs are confined comfortable?   NO

These dogs have to eat, sleep, urinate, and defecate in a single confined area.  Owners who chain their dogs are also less likely to clean the area.  Although where there may have been grass at one time, the area usually is so beaten down by the dog's pacing that the ground consists of nothing but dirt or mud when it rains.

A chained animal is caught in a vicious cycle of frustration by long periods of boredom and social isolation.  He becomes a shell of his former self.  No human interactions and kindness.  In the end, the helpless dog suffers the frustration of watching the world go by in isolation.  This is a cruel fate for what is by nature a highly social animal.

 What can I do?

 Remember first and foremost that your dog is a pack animal and looks to you for leadership and love.

. Give your dog a chance to be your friend

. Your dog is a pack animal needing others around him.

. Don't make the backyard your dog's only home.  Make him part of your family

. Keep your dog with you!  Your dog should have living space whenever you are home.  This includes sleeping inside your house at night.  He can lay next to you when you watch T.V. at your computer, or sleep near you.  These things are very important to his mental well being.

                                    Dogs Deserve Better   www.dogsdeservebetter.com

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