Why Leaving Your Dog Outside Often Can Lead To Behavior Problems
Deciding what to do with your dog while you’re at work, running errands, or otherwise out of the house can be a tough choice.Most dog owners have to leave their dogs home alone for periods of the day, and some owners choose to leave their dogs alone in the yard unattended.While this might sound like a good idea, leaving a dog alone in the yard all day can actually lead to behavior problems. Many owners don’t even realize that leaving their dogs alone outside is the cause!Here are some key reasons why pet dogs can’t be left to live or spend most of their time outside unsupervised.
Common Behavior Issues
When isolated with limited human companionship, even friendly dogs may become bored and frustrated. This can lead to excessive barking, destructive habits, running away, aggression, or depression.Anxious and fearful dogs who have no way of escaping from people or animals passing by the fence may resort to lunging, snapping, or biting to protect themselves.In addition, some neighborhoods are noisier than others and have lots of dogs barking all day. This can cause a neighborhood pack effect and cause your dog to start barking, howling or whining more often.
Social Behaviors Will Deteriorate And Bad Behaviors Will Flourish
Unfortunately, being left alone in the yard can affect a dog’s loose leash walking skills. A dog who previously walked politely on leash may now become frustrated when restrained around these same dogs or other animals, and may act out.Pet parents may think that dogs left alone in the yard have been having fun all day and don’t need walks. This can result in a dog becoming frustrated and he or she may go bonkers when the leash eventually does come out, leading to even more unwanted behavior on walks.Remember, any behavior that your dog practices over and over again will become stronger. If he or she is reactively barking in the yard, you will see more of this behavior in everyday life. Social behaviors will deteriorate and anxiety, hyperactivity, or guarding behaviors will flourish.
Dogs Can Escape If Left Alone Outside
You might think you have a secure fence around your yard, but any determined dog will be able to sneak out. A dog might burrow under or jump over the fence.Remember, a dog who is left alone all the time might try to escape due to boredom or loneliness.
A High Risk Of Animal Attacks
Every day, it seems like there are news reports about wild animals attacking dogs. Don’t let your own dog become one of these stories.Wild animals may attack a dog that is left alone outside. This includes larger animals like coyotes and sneakier animals like venomous snakes and insects.
Exposure To Harsh Weather
Dogs who are left outside alone risk being exposed to harsh weather conditions. First of all, extreme conditions like heat waves and winter storms can prove to be fatal to a dog. This is especially if they have not been provided with shelter.So make sure to always bring your dog inside when the weather spikes.
The Risk Of Being Stolen
Unfortunately, the sight of a dog on their own might prompt someone to steal the dog.When dogs are stolen, they might end up being used in dog fighting rings or become subject to other abusive practices.
COME. SIT. STAY Dog Training
Dogs are playful and can be restless by nature (although this varies from breed to breed). Sitting at home while you and your family go about your day can stress out your furry friend which is why a lot of owners let their dogs hang out outside all day. As we mentioned above, if this is done often and for long periods throughout the day or night, this can undo any training an owner has put forth. Our professional dog trainers at COME. SIT. STAY Dog Training, located in Jacksonville, Fl., have years of experience and can train even the most difficult of dogs. To request more information about our in-home dog training services click here or give us a call at 904-233-0608. Want more dog training information, tips & tricks? Just follow us on Facebook!
December 2, 2022 - By : comesitstayusa@gmail.com
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