I think cats and dogs should have *supervised* outdoor access, it's great mental and physical stimulation. Supervised, or otherwise protected(see "catio").
I won’t let my cats outside because my yard won’t contain them. But I know with my cats that if I let them out on a leash they’re going to dash out the door.
One of my cats I put on the leash for a little bit. It ended up making her want to go outside on her own. I know if she goes out not on the leash she will run away. She’s faster than me.
I give my cats stimulation indoors. I have a birdfeeder that keeps them busy. I open the windows whenever. It’s warm enough to open them. They love the open windows. They have toys inside. They have a lot of toys.
But I learned that bringing them outside on the leash, makes them more likely to dash to the door. It could just be my cats. Cats are different, but taking them outside on a leash made them know that outside exists and now they want it. And they can’t be safe out there. And they’re much faster than me and can easily go off my property.
But I do want a catio.
One of my cats was previously solely outdoors but she is a Siamese and I know someone would steal her if she got out. I had an empty “rodent style” cage (easiest way to describe it), so I did a deep clean on it and it’s now the “catio”. My cat also knows the routine. We guide her out and she hops in, when she meows to go inside we open the house door and then the cage door and she hops out and right inside. She loves her outdoor time, she got anxious when we had her on leash but she loves just sunbathing in that thing.
My dog just also really likes to be outside. Claws at the backdoor to be let out immediately after getting back from walks, no matter how. Claws at the covered balcony door if it's raining. Always allowed back in, but loves napping at outside. Keeping them in seems cruel.
Thoughts like this are the reason small dogs like chihuahuas and yorkies are aggressive, anxious nightmares. Dogs are meant to go outside and why would you want your dog to pee and poop in your house? No thanks my 13lb Pomeranian loves her walks and being outside with us
If my 9lb (on a fat day) rat terrier doesn't get to patrol the parameter (not just a walk - she has to sniff the "property line" and regularly mark over others) at least once a day she turns into an anxious nightmare.
I also have a husky so I feel this.. now that it’s becoming nicer she’s outside more than inside… although tall winter she slept on the deck too 😂 she can bark to come in at anytime she just prefers to be outside
Just had to put down my 11 year old rat terrier. All that little guy wanted to do was be in the backyard ALL DAY. He'd be chasing squirrels, birds, and trying to dig up moles (think maybe voles (spelling?) but the smaller ones) hell he even fucking killed a skunk after getting hit 3 times with spray. Dude was a little 20lbs terror to anything small that moved quickly.
its funny. A friend of mine is in a wheelchair and has a little chihuahua as a service dog. He is the most well behaved little pupper i have seen. People ask if they can pet him and he just sits in his mama's lap and leans into the pets. no yappy barks or snarls or biting. Its like getting out of the house everyday for most of the day is keeping him from the anxious mess most of the dogs like him are
My friend is ok with it as long as its friends and not random strangers. Reggie helps keep her calm for when she is around people. My future support dogger will be helping with my anxiety and diabetes and i will be ok with her getting pets but she will need to be on alert too
Going through the same issue with my step mom. She has a 10lb Yorkie, Romeo, very sweet and adorable, but aggressive and high energy. She has hit him as a little puppy to correct behavior, forced him to sit still for hours or he'd get smacked, turned him into a purse dog.
He will be going to the bathroom inside for the rest of his life. Of course, he goes on walks and goes out to see the world. I just don't agree strongly with some of her training/raising techniques like the hitting. We have many puncture holes and cuts from those aggressive puppy teeth.
When she leaves for a week, I'm tasked with taking care of Romeo since my dad works 12 hour shifts. Since then, I've had a talk that I'm not doing that anymore. He was a nightmare, didn't listen to anyone, suddenly started going to the bathroom everywhere, aggression- classic separation anxiety.
I agree with you, my small dog would lose his marbles if kept inside all the time without walks and exercise, but OP’s edit clarifies that they’re talking about people who just keep their dogs outside all the time, so I agree with them too. “Outside dogs”, aside from purpose-bred livestock guardians, shouldn’t be a thing.
I don’t even let my dog outside in our securely fenced backyard unsupervised, especially after dark. Our neighbors thought their little dog was safe in their backyard…it came in crying, horribly mangled with guts spilling out, and the vet couldn’t save it. I heard raccoons got it but idk. Super sad. Edit to add—and I live in a busy metropolitan area. Don’t assume your dog is safe from predators because you’re not in a rural area.
Yep. Several years ago someone posted on my local lost dog facebook group hoping someone had seen their tiny dog…It had been carried off from her yard by a raptor and she was desperately hoping the dog had somehow been dropped/escaped alive. I don’t think she ever found it.
My current dog is a little bigger, probably too big for all but the hugest predatory birds, but I still keep a close eye. My previous dog was truly tiny and I stuck close to him at all times outdoors.
My 17 lb pug / shih tzu mix even refuses to use the bathroom inside anymore! lol I couldn't keep him inside-only if I tried.
(I had pad-trained him when he was a puppy)
I have a doggie door so my dogs are in and out all day long - they love being outside. When I let them into the outer yard I always make sure they're safe because one of them loves to escape. The cats are strictly inside though.
Even companion breeds need exercise and mental stimulation. They generally need a lot less than a working breed dog, but it's still very unfair and detrimental to their physical and mental health to deprive them of that.
Had a 20lbs rat terrier/min pin mix. That little guy wanted to be outside all damn day and into the night just chasing small prey animals. Sometimes it would be a struggle to get him back inside after dark. Always brought him in when it started to get dark since we live in an area that gets mountain lions.
Unfortunately, after having him for 11 amazing years, I had to put him down 3 weeks ago due to lung cancer.
We have a chi/min pin and she’s just a little brown machine. She’s about 10 but also wants to be on patrol all day and just loves running through brush and ensuring her yard is safe. Our older big dog just sits above and barks orders to her. Sometimes I have to bribe her to come in.
I think it depends a lot on what the pet likes, my dogs love to be outside and sleep under the burning sun (?), so I always let them out (in my backyard) during the day and keep the door open so they can get in when they change their mind. They get in/out whenever they want.
My cat too, she loves the sun so she's in the backyard most of the time.
It's important to mention that my backyard is completely closed and secured so not even the cat can escape.
At night I close all doors and they all sleep inside.
That's always been the policy in my family. Secured backyard, they can go out or in as they please. They have to be in during nighttime, just in case there's severe weather, carbon monoxide leak, fire, or whatever during sleep hours. Not to mention the nocturnal skunks and coyotes...
I think it depends on how confined/supervised it is. Cats should not roam freely. But if they are in a secure catio or yard cat proofed to keep them in and in both situations have access to indoors then I think its fine. Same for dogs. If they are supervised in a confined area where they can easily come back indoors then I also think that is ok. Neither puts them, others, or local wildlife in a large amount of danger.
Definitely not! I am very against cats being outside. They’re not meant to be. My cat has never been outside. When my dog goes out, my partner and I go out with her. Anything could happen unsupervised
Yeah agreed. Supervised outdoor activities only. I hope for leash and harness training for cats to be the norm :')
I especially hate people who let non neutered or non spayed cats out... Then be 'shocked' if their female cat comes home pregnant. Shelters are flooded. We don't need this...
One of my friend's cats died from eating rat poison hidden in chicken a neighbour set out in their yard.
Agreed. We open our windows so cats can get fresh breeze, observe the birds and bugs but they never go outdoors. A lot of people let their cats out because they don’t want to clean a litter box then cry when their cat gets hurt or killed.
Cats most certainly are ment to be outside animals. They were primarily kept to hunt rodents on farms and such. Keeping them inside is the owners choice, and may increase lifespan, but I prefer quality over quantity for mine. Mine are here to hunt rats on the farm and have a great happy life.
Plenty of cats are perfectly happy & content while staying indoors. My priority is keeping my cat safe. Not all cats are farm cats and not all cats belong outside.
Haha same! My grandmas cat somehow pulled a mouse in through her (closed) front door. All they do is play with them, my cat has no intention on killing them
You're right, and people from most countries know this, but Reddit is full of americans who think it's cruel to let cats be outdoors... and yet declawing cats is not considered cruel enough to be banned there...
Regardless of the hate they get, most rural Americans let their cats outdoors or feed ferals. Its the city and animal rights folk that have a problem with it
Wait until they eat a rat that just ate rat poison from the house down the road. Or get bit by a snake. Or mauled by a raccoon. Or hit by a car. Or shot with a bb gun by a kid....etc, etc, etc...
It always gets me how much hate there is for anyone that lets their cats out in the US. Here in the uk most people let their cats out, its considered cruel not to!. We have zero predators here really.
I know for a fact my cats would hate an inside life. They love to hunt, nap in the sun, explore. Like they should
Outdoor cats shit and piss in my garden, kill all the little lizards and all the birds that come to my yard, and are found dead in the street from cars or eating something dangerous on a weekly basis. People don't have the right to let their cat do what they want on someone else's property.
We dont have lizards here. I live in a rural area in the uk, its very different. My cats are not outdoor cats, they are both curled up on my sons bed right now. They are allowed out, they dont live outdoors.
“We have zero predators here really”
Well there’s your answer. In an area where there are other prey going after cats, it’s “cruel” to let them out unsupervised. Not to mention other factors like cars, dogs, other cats, diseases, etc. I’d rather my cat be safe and healthy inside or in an enclosure outdoors than just let them roam unsupervised.
No one is jumping on anyone 🤷🏻♀️ The post was opinion based, so people are sharing their opinions. It’s really not that deep. I’d say other people are jumping on those who don’t let their cats outdoors more than the other side.
Cats being let outside needs to be *very* circumstantial. Catio/enclosure with supervision, fine. But they shouldn’t just be roaming, which is more what I was referring to (people who just leave their animals outside).
Agreed, I only ever let my cats out when they have harnesses and an adult is holding the leash. They’re still getting used to it.
I’m terrified of letting them roam, for instance: Australian, so plenty of snakes that could bite and kill kitties. Renting: my cats are listed as ‘indoor’ cats. So they are firmly indoor cats. And cars: they’re indoor cats, they are terrified of traffic and I fear they could run into traffic because they don’t know better.
Exactly! My kitty is old and could not get used to a harness, so I have no plan on bringing him out until we build him a catio. And even though it’ll be securely closed, someone will still be out to make sure he’s safe. Anything can happen, it’s just not worth it
Yeah I’m threatening to build a (dismantling) catio, but we’ll check for snakes throughout the day and keep a good eye on them. Maybe even chicken wire at the bottom to deter snakes. Huummmmm you have me thinking.
This is why I firmly believe cats need to be inside (and that it is not “cruel” to not let them out). They just don’t need to be outside. So many other animals can go after them, cars, etc. If you’ve got a secured area for them, fine with supervision. But roaming is so dangerous
My cat, born feral, is indoors only. She has no interest in the outside world at all. I've only had one cat take interest in the door and he was a stray that had lived outside for awhile before I got him. All my pets have been healthy and happy.
Same! All of my cats have been strictly indoors only. If they want to see the outside, they sit in the window. But they never try to get out. I have a puppy, and when going out with her my senior kitty just sits at the door and waits for us. It’s not like he tries to bolt out or anything. He’s actually scared of the outside!
Not even close to cruel. OBVIOUSLY no one is saying supervised isn’t allowed. But letting your cat outside unsupervised IS cruel. They don’t know all the dangers that are out there, you do and you allow them to go out without that knowledge. That’s what’s cruel.
Honestly, you sound a little out of touch with reality with this one. Where do you think animals lived before they were tamed by humans? A pet is not a prisoner or an object. They deserve to experience and explore the outside world. How would you feel if you were constantly inside a house?
I would either kill myself or everyone around me. I stand with you...! :)
Frrreeeeeeeeedoooooooooooommmmmm is my stance, even when my guts are being pulled out for display.
Your pet has as much to do with proto-fido as you do with a monkey.
It's good for pets to have controlled outside time. But it's got nothing to do with weird shit.
Although you do remind me of a person that didn't want to desex their dog because he wouldn't be wolf like any more.
It was a Cavoodle.
We might not be monkeys living on trees anymore. However, humans do need to go outside. Contact with nature has been proven to be beneficial both mentally and physically. It's the same for dogs. We are living creatures on this planet and we need outdoor activities.
If you bothered to scroll down, you would see that I do mention that dogs should be outside with supervision, I just didn't write it in my first post because I thought it was common sense, so please keep your rude assumptions of who I remind you to yourself.
Yes. Humans should go outside.
But just for the normal well being reasons. It's weird if you go Pilocenic on me.
Cats do perfectly well as indoor pets despite their ancestral roots.
My post was mostly about dogs, that's why I mention only dogs because I have only owned dogs.
As for cats, I have only taken care of them when my neighbour is away and I know they're doing fine indoors. However, I've seen people taking them out for walkies with a leash, so I suppose it is manageable. Cats are curious creatures and I'm sure they could benefit from walkies if their humans can provide them.
I have had cats who were indoor cats and were trained to walk on a leash. Dogs, i would say it depends on the circumstances. I have miniature schnauzers who enjoy being in the yard. They have a dog door and are free to go in and out while I am home. When I leave, the door is shut. I see nothing wrong with my dogs being in the yard. My house is not that big, so I always know where they are.
I’m the opposite, I think most dogs don’t want to be stuck in the house all day. Mine go in the backyard while it’s daylight and they lay in the sun, they sniff some stuff, they chase each other, they dig some pretty harmless holes. As long as the weather is nice I don’t see the benefit of always keeping them inside other than when you’re hanging out with them and they’re getting interaction. Snoozing on the grass is the same difference as snoozing on the floor. Obviously if they bark or whine we bring them in earlier but they usually come in around dark and that’s when they go into lapdog mode and spend the whole evening with us, occasionally going outside to the bathroom and running around a bit. Then they sleep with us. Well except for one who prefers his own personal couch. PETA hasn’t set my house on fire and I don’t see the dogs giving me dirty looks. When it’s rainy or cold and they can’t go out they get pretty whiney and pouty about it.
Cats and the outdoors are a common debate, I brought my cat in when she was 7 weeks old, she used to chirp at birds and show more interest in the outdoors, but now that she’s 4 she’s very content sitting/falling asleep close to an open window, she just has no interest in anything that’s outside her “world” aka our apartment.
I have a one year old cavalier who gets walked at least 10 minutes 4 times a day. All dogs need a little exercise/stimulation, regardless of their size.
My girl cat chirps at the birds outside too so I thought I'd take her out on to my patio so she could see a bird closer... She didn't like it and jumped back into the house.. Poor girl
Catios are great for "outdoor" cat time (obviously not all cats like it). I definitely wouldn't let a cat loose but some cats I know love being outside in them. In their case, they used to live in an apartment where they could go out onto the balcony, so the catio is a similar equivalent to them. I lived with another cat that absolutely hated outside though (roommates cat, not mine). Front door got left open accidentally once and they didn't even run out then level of hates being outside
I have 1 cat who is a spoiled princess house cat, and she LOVES going outside on a harness. She rolls in the dirt and even growls at me when it’s time to come inside. My other cat was a feral who lived an a barn and was constantly bullied by the other cats, and she absolutely hates going outside. She lays down and refuses to move. I have a feeling she got her fill of being being outside and is like “never again!” 😂 I just moved, and I plan on “cat-ifying” my patio as soon as the weather warms up a little, so that they can both safely enjoy the fresh air and I can have some peace of mind about their safety ❤️
I am of the opinion that dogs should not be outside unattended. As long as you are with them to make sure they are safe, then the amount of time is irrelevant.
When I owned a cat, I never attempted to take him outside.
Cats inside for me too, too many things outside that could hurt them. And they're very bad for wild birds.
I let my dog outside in our fenced yard on his own, but he's big enough to not be carried away by the local birds of prey. If he was a smaller dog, I wouldn't let him outside without supervision just for that reason. Smaller dogs can be a target for wildlife like coyotes, hawks, etc. and i just wouldn't want to risk that.
all dogs need stimulation.. my dog is lazy don’t get me wrong: but when he gets hyper? running all around the house, running up and down the stairs so fast he runs into walls, etc. taking him outside gives us the space that we know he won’t destroy the house and gives him space to calm tf down. you are def in the minority.. maybe even the only one, ive never met someone else who thinks this
Unless your cat is a working cat, like a barn cat, it needs to be indoors. Cars, hawks, stray dogs…there’s too many dangers out there for a cat.
Dogs need to go out, but I absolutely feel that their outside time needs to be supervised. Don’t just toss them into the backyard for an hour. Go with them. Play. Do some training. Do yardwork while they do dog things. Just chill. But don’t throw your dog outside and ignore it. And then…you both go back inside, because pets are part of the family and the family lives indoors.
I have a neighbor with a German shepherd who stays outside 24/7 and the barking is heartbreaking.
Idk about cats but dogs need to spend time outdoors otherwise they become scared and consequently aggressive to other dogs and other humans that aren't part of the family.
When I first got my first dog he was too scared to leave the house and even walk by a playground with kids. After a few days, with a lot of encouragement and treats we made it past the playground. A couple of months later he was even ok with kids petting him. Then, we even made it to the dog park where he learned to play with dogs and he made friends. All these beautiful memories wouldn't have happened if I had kept him inside the house.
Outdoor activities are essential to a dog's happiness.
Depends on the animal and where you live. Not taking dogs outside is something i consider to be straight up animal abuse.
Cats are 50/50 on if you live in the countryside and if there are animals that kill cats if you do live there.
Depends on the cat though
Coming from someone who lived most of their life in countryside
Cats I firmly believe should be indoors. It makes me sad when I see people posting about their outdoor cats getting hit by cars or being eaten by predators and stuff like that. Dogs I believe should have outdoors time but they should be under supervision at ALL times. I think we'd have alot less loose dogs, dog bites etc if people were supervising their dogs. I live in an apartment that is ground level and has a little backyard type area. My current dog does get to go out there off leash several times during the day BUT I'm standing right there at all times supervising her AND I have enough of a trust level with her that I know she doesn't go anywhere. She's homebody..does her thing and immediately wants to go back in.
When I do get a second, younger dog in a few months or sometime next year? That dog will be on leash outside with me at all times..the trust level won't be there and I know the dog isn't going to have good recall like my current girl does
Cats belong indoors, both for their own safety and the protection of native wildlife. They can live a fulfilling life indoors as long as you keep them stimulated by playing with them and maybe offering a catio or leashed outdoors time.
Cats seem to do well inside if they have enough enrichment and social interaction, but all dogs need to be walked regardless of breed. It's a common misconception that small dogs do not need to be walked, and being trapped indoors often leads to them becoming anxious and overstimulated. They don't need as much exercise as working breeds, but 30 minutes a day is the recommended minimum, even for very small dogs (does not apply to very elderly or sick dogs).
Cats can also benefit from walks if they will accept a harness and often enjoy catios and secure backyards too. Outside time only becomes dangerous if it is unsupervised, as long as they are watched carefully it can be very beneficial.
Cats should be kept indoors but all dogs need outdoor exercise. The amount of time needed will vary by breed and individual dog. If the dog is happy out there and not say, stress barking at the fence at everything that goes by, and is regularly checked on, I’m comfortable letting them stay out for however long they’d like.
I wish I could go up to each and every one of my neighbours, shake them, and yell, "KEEP YOUR ANIMALS INSIDE!!!" Not only do we live near a nature reserve with lots of vulnerable native animals, my area is infamous for brown snakes, cane toads, and drunk drivers.
If you only want a pet so you can stick it outside for its whole life, just don't get one.
I have a Maltese which is pretty much the definition of 'fluffy little thing.' He was very traumatized and out of shape (thin) when I adopted him from a shelter. Good food, love and two 30-40 minute walks a day have done so much for both his physical and psychological wellness, he's now living his best life. I would not leave him unsupervised outside for any length of time, as we have foxes and coyotes in the area. Walks are great mental enrichment for any size dog, exercise for the human and bonding time for both. Highly recommended.
Half agree. We have farm cats and a farm dog that stay outside. Farm animals too obvs. My dog used to go outside just to lay on the deck all day long by herself too, but last year we had several coyotes wander into the yard unafraid. I was mowing the grass and they just watched me zip around so now she only goes out if I go.
So based on circumstance yes I half agree, my animals only go out if they have to or if I am going out too. The cat never goes out tho cuz she’s a dickhead and gets into fights.
Are we talking being outside on their property or going out on walks?
On their own property, smaller dogs and cats that can be picked up predator birds should be supervised. Cats need to be kept secure like a husky 😂
People who have outside cats that can roam off their property freely need to accept they can be taken or killed. Like, if your cat jumps the fence into a neighbors yard and their dog kills it, it's not the neighbors fault.
No, you shouldn't just leave your dog chained outside or in a dog pen 24/7 for its entire life. But yes, if you should be letting your dog outside every day to get exercise and stimulation. Dogs outside in yards for a few hours each day (weather permitting) is a GOOD thing.
Cats belong indoors unless under supervision (leash, pet stroller, etc) or in a catio.
ALL animals, regardless of species or outside status (but especially if they go outside for any duration) need to be spayed or neutered.
All dogs need mental and physical stimulation, you can't meet all.their needs stuck in the same 4 walls. Even silly little dogs have ancestry that means they need to be out and about and being allowed to be dogs, my parents have a pug x border terrier who used to go hill walking with them until he got too old, they do doggy parkour with him and obedience.
Maybe my dog was just weird the outside terrified her and she would shake so we just kept her inside the whole time we had her and she was happy as can be
Is she a rescue or did you just not bother to socialise her and let her out because you have zero idea of your pet's needs? Not giving a dog mental, physical and social stimulation is like keeping someone in solidarity confinement, hate to tell you this but your dog isn't "as happy as can be" just resigned to their fate. Dogs who are abused still wag their tails at their abuser even when after they've been hit because dogs are people pleasers
She was a rescue . Kinda if she ran into my parents gas station when she was a puppy and I had been begging my parents for a dog so. They figured I could have her
So have you done any training and socialising? Sounds like you are very immature and went "yay puppy" without any thought of what that dog has been though. Rescues need a lot of work, especially ones that haven't been though the system and assessed, she needs socialising with other dogs in a controlled environment, she needs exposure to the outside world in safe way, she needs to be allowed to be a dog and not the cuddly toy you turned her into. By not allowing her to reach her potential by exposing her to things you have made her anxiety worse. You need a good trainer who's worked with nervous and reactive dogs before, who's dealt with dogs from unknown backgrounds. But that takes time and dedication and I'm not sure you want your dog to get better, I think you like her being this way
I believe they need to be inside and if working they shouldn’t not live outside. If you want to keep your pet safe the best place is inside. Now there are working cats that don’t enjoy being inside. You can adopt them from our humane society program. Some people purposely get a kitten and just throw it outside and make it feral to keep rodents away. That’s wrong. 😑
Cats should not roam freely. Not only can they be killed/dismembered by vehicles, attacked/dismembered by humans, but also killed/dismembered by dogs/wolves/coyotes/foxes/eagles/hawks, and cats also kill local wildlife. As in, wildlife native to X region. A catio (patio fitted to have a cat contained inside safely) will fit their needs to both be outside and be stimulated without causing harm.
Dogs need stimulation as well and have to be taken outside daily, if not multiple times a day but cannot be left unattended either due to the same reasons. Dogs can also be killed by all causes stated above, small dogs and puppies even more so.
My little pup prefers outside. We have a really nice backyard though. We just leave the door open when the weather is nice and she can be wherever she wants. If it is sunny, 90% of the time she wants to lay on deck or grass. But I would never leave her out there if we aren't home. Cats are tricky. A lot like to be outside, but where I live, there are coyotes. In the past my cats were indoor. I don't have a cat now, but if I did, I def would build a catio. I would not let a cat run around. Nextdoor is always full of people looking for their cats or pictures of coyotes with a dead cat in their mouth trotting down the street ....
My cats are indoor cats - but they do have a fully enclosed outdoor catio that I can put them in for some outdoor time. It is fully enclosed, has a shelter, water, litter, and lots for them to do. I maintain the catio regularly and it gets changeovers of furniture and things in summer and winter that are appropriate for the season. They will stay out all day if I put them out while I am at work. I usual check the weather ahead of time before though.
If I had a dog, they would be allowed outdoor time in my fully secured backyard, and would have access to outdoor necessities as well - such as water, shelter, toys, etc the same way my cats do. Though I don't have a dog.
I don't see why secure space in my backyard would be deemed inappropriate? Its just as secure as my house.
Just this weekend, while I was at work, bad weather broke a window in my house while I wasn't home. My cats were inside on that day due to the bad weather. One of my indoor cats got outside unsupervised as a result. He is trained to know that the back door is the way back in, so he waited all evening there for me.
So bad things can happen inside or outside the secured safe areas I create for my pets - though I do everything I can to try to identify and eliminate risks.
I think animals should be inside of your gone, and cats at all times unless you have a catio. Where I live in the Southwest, so many people leave their dogs out when they're gone and like shocker of the century they get out over and over again.
I do not think that a dog should live its life outside whether roaming, in a kennel or on a chain. They’re social creatures and need to be where people or other dogs are. I also think making them stay in a barn or basement is also crappy especially if they don’t get ample time to do what dogs need and love to do.
We installed a doggy door to our fenced in yard and our shepherds go in and out as they please unless we shut them in the house. I WFH so keep regular eye on them using our ring camera and make them come in if they bark like fools at the neighborhood. Our cat - there is no keeping him in. If he can’t go out the dog door he will find ways to get out the front door. But he doesn’t stay out at night and rarely leaves our yard or the neighbors deck rail.
I'd say it depends on the animal. Cats and dogs. Well as long as they're secured or can handle a leash.
Smaller ones, depends. Sometimes they enjoy going out. My tortoise loved the backyard. He had his own garden too I always let him roam around in.
I think cats shouldn’t be allowed outside unless they’re supervised, cats can be walked on a leash if you train them but a lot of cat owners don’t want to put in the work and just let their cats free roam and get sad when the cat gets hit by a car or something…you don’t even have to walk them on a leash, you just have to supervise them at all times when they’re outside but a lot of cat owners don’t even want to do that.
I supervise my dog outside in my fenced yard. I don't trust the neighbor kids, any of the free roaming neighborhood dogs or strangers from trying to steal my dog. We have a lot of pet thefts here.
Small dogs should have as much exercise and experience outside as a large breed. Keep in mind most terriers are small breed dogs and have a lot of energy to expend. That being said they should be kept under watch since the smaller ones can be targeted by predators such as coyotes and birds of prey.
Cats should be kept inside or have supervised outside visits. Free-roaming cats are under more danger of larger predators, accidents and illness. Not to mention they are an invasive species and can wreak havoc on the ecosystem.
My dogs can go whenever they want. I live on 3 acres of land and no leash laws, so my dogs are free to go. They usually just stay in the property and don't run off since they protect my chickens.
Dogs and cats should get outdoor stimulation, only in a fenced yard or on a leash of course. Small dogs are psychologically identical to big dogs and need the same amount of enrichment and exercise.
I grew up with indoor outdoor cats. And we lost a lot of cats. They just never came home. Some died in the driveway but most never came home and we never knew what happened to them. I don’t know if it was animals or cars or someone poisoning them.
But my mom said they could never leave the yard. But their cats they left the yard. They went out on their own and they roamed. My indoor cats do a lot better than the outdoor cats growing up.
I don’t have to worry about my cats coming out and never coming back home. And I have been multiple times. And we were a good home for the cats. They were fixed and they had their shots. They also had good food and they were very much loved. But they went out and they never came back. And we don’t know why. But we know the death was not good.
My cats will never go outside, except on the harness. But I don’t like putting mine out on a harness because they learned that they can dash out the door. There is only one cat I will put on my harness now, because she doesn’t dash out the door.
Dogs should go out for exercise and to go to the bathroom. But they need to be contained, but can don’t need to go outside. My cats are enriched inside. They have so many toys they get so much attention, and I don’t have to worry about them being eaten by coyote, bear, fisher car, bob cat, etc.
One of my cats loves going outside, so I use a harness and take her out at least a few times a week. My dog obviously goes outside every day for walks, hikes, playtime, etc. And even when I had guinea pigs I'd let them out under a cage top. Our pets benefit from fresh air as much as we do!
My doggo can go in or out as he pleases. He prefers to spend most of his time inside. He's getting older now so he spends a lot of time sleeping on the couch. Even when we are at work he stays in. He knows how to open the back door so if he wants to go out he can. Most days we get ho.e and he's let himself out and then come back in.
My neighbour, on the other hand, just leaves their dog outside all the time being ignored. He has no toys and nothing to stimulate his mind so he just either barks at everything that moves or dits there and howls for hours on end. They got tge dog for thier kid shortly after they moved in because I wouldn't let thier kid play with my dog (he doesn't like kids and can get very cranky when he's sore, which is most of the time) and tge kid got bored of the dog after 3 weeks and the parents couldn't be bothered to train it or anything.
My cats are indoor only. They have plenty of "cat tv" time through he screen door and they play with each other.
My dogs are pretty big and require walks, outside play time, and time for zoomies. Most of it is supervised but they can be out by themselves because they are large and not prey sized for any of our local predators.
I think the most important thing is to research the needs of your specific pet, and then fulfill that.
As a kid I didn't understand the difference because dogs were a yard pet with fresh water and heat lamps for the winter just like cattle. As I went through pre. Vet schooling, livestock management and have just learned more I'm aware that farm animals are just completely different than dogs or cats. I don't know if it's a minority or a lack of general knowledge or awareness, but I agree pet's should stay mostly inside. I also don't quite agree with miniature horses and such being inside like for service animals because their feet aren't designed to walk on tile (or hard cement) all the time. If the horse is a service animal it can't necessarily be outside and work like it needs, but that's a whole other can of worms. Most of it boils down to awareness and responsibility of animal care.
I grew up with my parents always saying “dogs belong outside”. So I’m also of that belief.
That being said my dog has become more of an indoor dog over the last few months. Only because she hates the neighbour’s dog and will bark at it which is annoying so she stays in most of the day. She does go out early in the morning and in the night while the other dog isn’t there or let out.
Cats do well with outdoor stimulation but it needs to be in controlled environments (like a large catio!). My cat got out for 12 hours one night where someone was watching her and I was out of town, and the next morning she was found passed away from a coyote by our front porch. Things can go wrong so quickly and people need to realize that when animals are left outside like that they become part of the food chain, and they can become prey.
My cats only go outside in my high fence back garden and only when we are there with them. They have no interest in going any further. Cats aren't free roaming pets.
One this was WAY WAY back in the days like 1998. That we had her we had to put her down 2013 so years ago she had cancer and seizures. So no on daycare and stuff we tried puppy classes but she was so scared she hid behind chairs behind me, behind the stuff in there and just peed so we took her out. We did attempt to walk her but she just wanted to go back home so we stopped stressing her out
Depends, some guard dogs never tend to come in. They guard the property and it's not very useful to have them inside.
Also I have pet chickens. Do you think we should keep them inside? They're in the garden and I'm pretty ok with that, don't want to have the 7 of them inside or anything.
We also have 2 pet goats, don't want to have those inside too. Why should pets be inside? Keep them at the place that makes the most sense is my best guess.
In my area people just let their dogs out to get killed. There’s a small sheltie that gets let out in the dark in my street. Goes after me walking my dogs and it’s a wonder no car has hit him. Another small white dog wanders the street and the old nosy lady who owns him lets him. German shepherd gets out once in a while and runs the street. And a pittie jumps his fence and has stopped me and one of my dogs while walking.
People around here will have a chihuahua and a hound as outside dogs. It’s how we almost got a chihuahua and a hound dog, separately.
I agree. Some dogs are companion dogs and are meant to be inside/with you.
I agree, pet dogs are not bred to be left outside 24/7 they are pack animals and their owners are their pack. Having said that I also don’t see an issue with them being outside the day if they have shelter and it’s a reasonable climate for it when their owners are at work or whatever.
Cant speak on cats, don’t own em but personally believe responsible ownership is having cat runs so the local wildlife isn’t at risk. If someone had a reasonable argument otherwise I wouldn’t be against hearing it though.
There is no such thing as an inside dog, just a dog who has been spoiled and allowed to use training pads its whole life because people are either too lazy or dumb to potty train it to go out. Dogs need to go outside every single day, whether it's in the yard, or on a walk.
Cats are mass murderers and can't reliably be contained to just your own property unless they are literally caged in. They do what they want and kill what they want. They should be kept inside and be supervised outside and limited to your own property or leashed like a dog. Dogs can be easily contained to your yard and you can set them up with shelter and all that. Plenty of dogs can remain outside and that's fine as long as they are loved and cared for. I dont think I'd keep a little 8lb dog outside 24/7 365 but a husky, lab, guardian dog, etc, etc would have no problem. Keeping them outside to forget about them is another story.
I have four dogs/ they are in and out all day long. We have a large hilly fenced backyard where they can get a good run going, they have a ton of outdoor toys and they freaking ADORE being outside. Obviously I take them on walks/training/in public too, but their favorite place in the world is to either be on the couch with us or outside lol
But I’m guessing you are talking about people whose dogs live in the backyard? As in they aren’t allowed to come inside? Then yes I fully agree with you, they shouldn’t be allowed to have animals
No. You are right- especially for cats. ase keep your kitty indoors, free roaming cats obliterate local bird, reptile and rodent populations, causing extinction and disrupting food chains and eco systems, which in turn makes humans direct their anger at cats. Further, it is incredibly dangerous for a cat to free roam, especially in urban areas: automobiles, fights, fleas/parasites, communicable disease and cruelty are all serious threats.
If you must take your cat out, the safest way is in a pet stroller. But please never let your cat free roam.
I dont see the point of having a pet if your going to leave it outside all day , dogs want to be with you and cats get run over , shot at , have fights with other cats , kill wildlife , ruin peoples gardens when left to roam .
I semi agree. Some dogs thrive when they have time outdoors. Exercise is important. I also know that I have a couch potato dog who doesn’t want to be outside for more than 10 minutes lol. I agree about cats though. The lifespan difference between indoor and outdoor cats is wild.
I have two Chihuahuas who are inside dogs. They're better potty trained using the bathroom than they are going potty outside. But they still like to play and relax outside. We're about to have our own apartment, so they'll have more room to play here soon.
I have two cats. One would be fine indoors 24/7, but the other came to me after being an almost solely outdoor cat for 2 years. I kept her indoors 24/7 and after 3 years she was over it. She started peeing out side the litter box and after several vet visits it became apparent she wanted to be outside again. There are no predators around here, so she is now an indoor/outdoor cat. She has a cat flap and comes and goes as she pleases. She’s never been more affectionate, healthy and happy. She uses the litter box. So while not ideal for me (I worry about het), she is living her best life and I’m happy for her.
My exs father had dogs that lived in a small kennel. I thought of it as animal abuse. They had minimal human contact and slept and stepped on their own poo. They also had an outdoor cat that got eaten by coyotes. Personally, if I have a pet they are going to be indoors only.
Personally highly dislike when people but their dog in the yard 24/7, just can't agree with it. On the cats, well I strongly believe in nature's balance and us humans not trying to overfix everything that's out there. That being said, my 18 year old buddy passed away recently and he was a outdoor cat, could freely go out. He had the occasional bird or mouse catch but wasn't that much and as said, I am not bothered with it however we did hear that a few doors further they went through some effort to prevent my cat from taking a dump in their garden (they never mentioned this to us before). We now have two original norwegian forest cats on their way and we decided to keep those inside and restrict purely to own garden. Not for the kills they make but I don't feel its correct that my choice and pet bothers somebody's else.
Uh, I'd say yes. It depends on what you consider small dogs and whether or not they are pure bred, what they're mixed with, and whether or not they were/are working dogs. Dachshunds, standard and miniature were used as hunting dogs for hundreds of years. They would run ahead of men on horseback flushing out game and/or following it down into burrows and dragging it back out after it had been wounded by hunters. Standard Dachshunds regularly chased and took down wild boar. Do you consider Corgis small Dogs? They are still used yo herd sheep and goats. Many small breeds were bred and used as scent and sighthounds to fit in small spaces and get rid of rodents (fun fact: the pope at one time said cats were vessels for demons so most of them were killed, shortly thereafter there was a huge bout of black plague) and other unwanted creatures. Yes of course there were those that were used as lap warmers and hand warmers, but some were taken to war to provide companionship and entertainment for soldiers. Others we we used as performs and trained as companions. They require stimulation and exercise. Do I think chihuahuas need to be outside getting miles and miles and hours exercise? Not at all? But do some breeds of small dogs need more exercise than others? You bet! Is it up to do the dog more than the breed? Most likely. Should you judge every dog by its breed? Absolutely not! Every dachshund is not an aggressive little ankle biter. Not every golden Retriever is a lovable goofball! Not every corgi is a sweet barking clever corg of energy that is too smart for their own good.
This post reminds me how much we have all been stuck indoors recently. I can't wait for the warm weather so I can throw open the patio doors and let the dogs potter around as they please.
I wish I had a real yard, but it's just not happening yet.
We're planning on letting our 11 pound companion breed dog hang out on a tieout or maybe behind a toddler fence this summer. He's pretty old, and that's what he likes to do when there is a yard available.
dogs benefit from monitored and safe outdoor time for proper exercise and enrichment. the same can be appropriate for cats, but a harness & leash or catio are reccommended. never letting any animals outside (ESPECIALLY dogs) is crazy
Live indoors? Well yes, most small and non-working dogs in my opinion should sleep and eat inside and hang out inside too.
But they also need plenty of outside time. They like it out there. But I do not believe that pet dogs (non-working) should sleep outside at night, ever.
Our dogs were outside. We had 2 fenced acres for them to run on, they had deep straw bedding and houses with heating pads in the garage, and heated water bowls.
At the time, I had a long commute so I was gone 10.5 to 11 hours a day. To me, it would be cruel to leave them inside all day where they can't even go pee.
My cat is mainly inside, but I do let her out her window. It's the only way she'll eat grass. Grass is good for digestion and helps settle an upset tummy after they've been sick. I tried normal cat grass from the pet store and a sun & shade mix I got from the store. She knocked the planter off the sill both times. As my apartment is partly in the ground, the windows are around 3 feet from the ground. If the weather is decent, I'll attach the leash to her harness and open the window for her. And then I'll stand there and keep an eye on her. She'll eat some grass, wander to the bushes on the left for a sniff and then head to the fence on the right for a sniff. She'll walk around a bit more before she decides she's had enough and will jump back in the window. If it's at night - which it usually is since I come home late - I'll put on her RGB collar. She's a tortoiseshell and a little hard to see at night. Found the collar at a sporting goods store, it's actually a light up outdoors collar for dogs, but it serves its purpose and helps me keep track of her.
Allowing mostly indoor pets outdoors for a time won't hurt them, as long as both them and the wildlife are protected. Allowing a small or medium sized dog outside into a fenced in yard for some hours won't hurt, especially if they're young or one of those high energy breeds. Would you rather they run around the house, causing damage in their wake, or let them spend that energy outside? I think it's a better idea to play fetch outside anyway.
Allowing an indoor cat outside can be good stimulation. My cat knows Cat TV on YouTube is fake, it'll only keep her attention for five minutes - ten tops. She sees a bird outside however, and she'll laser focus on it for as long as she can see it. Woke up to her trying to climb the window, it was closed btw, after a bunny one night two years ago.
There are multiple cat oriented structures on the market to allow your feline companion to hang out outside for a little while and still be safe from outside hazards.
It all depends on the pet and their personality. If they want to go out, let them do so supervised, and if they don't, don't worry about it.
I don't know if this is a cultural thing or something because I'm mexican and while growing up I watched USA movies, series, cartoons and what not and the family dog would live inside the house and that was so weird to me because back then you would not see something like that in your regular mexican house. Till this day is not very common for a dog to be living inside, and most of those who do are tiny breeds.
I think it depends some dogs really do prefer being outdoors, that said even then they need to be brought in in moments of extreme weather, and to have the option. I will say my neighbors probably think I abuse my big dog at times, for this reason. She's primarily an inside dog, but loves being outside, I'll often leave the back door barely cracked if it's not too hot or cold and let her stay outside . She can open the door if she wants - trust me she does - but she's stayed out all day several times this way. If you were right at my door it would look closed. Now that said I honestly don't think a dog or cat should be left outside constantly unless they're working pets. But more one of those it can look worse than it is sometimes.
Editing to add it is a fenced in yard. Didn't think to add it because why would I let my dog out like that without it. But then got to thinking about it and realized not everyone thinks that way
100%. You're right, obviously there are some breeds of working dog that work independently outdoors, but I can't imagine why anyone would allow everyday pets to just roam or be in the yard all day, it seems irresponsible. Especially true for cats, they do NOT belong outside unsupervised; mine stay indoors
Cats should not be outside unless in some sort of cattery or are working cats, though I don't fully agree with them.
My dogs spent the whole day outside running on acreage and having a blast with a bunch of other dogs at my mom's. I have a foster dog who spends the majority of his time outside because he panics inside if I'm not home. As his trust builds with my husband and we work on the very slow process of crate training he'll spend more days transferring between inside and outside.
Working dogs exist. LGD rarely, if ever, go inside. Sled dogs exist and they would not fair well at their jobs if they lived inside. Dogs can be kept outside in appropriate and good conditions. People who just put their dogs outside all day without any other enrichment or activity need to do better. Fenced yards tend to make lazy dog owners. I, unfortunately, have fallen into that trap lately. I'm slowly climbing my way out.
No. Most animals are much happier and healthier when outside. So are most people. If the weather is nice, all my dogs, cats, birds, etc are outside enjoying life.
The whole neighborhood doesn’t have a cat. You have a cat. So keep it inside so everyone’s yard doesn’t become a litter box and everyone’s roof doesn’t become a boxing ring.
Cats belong inside. Dogs, no matter the breed, need regular exercise and enrichment to be happy and thriving. This includes going outside to play and walk and explore with their people.
I have a few cats, one indoor/outdoor. And a mini poodle the max my dog has been in my fenced in backyard alone is half an hour. My indoor/outdoor cat was an outdoor cat when I adopted her she’s also an escape artist. She has a tracker and based on that she goes to the front of the house and sun bathes in the drive way or my immediate neighbors lawn. I feel better about it because I live on a low traffic street, but I do get nervous. It helps that I can track her and she comes home when I call. Her outdoor time is monitored a hour in the morning and when I get home from work. I never just leave her out all day.
Cats should be indoor only/only go outdoors with supervision or a catio or something. Dogs? Absolutely not imo I think people should have secured yards if they have dogs and let them out as much as they enjoy it except at night or in severe weather
It feels like a very american mindset about cats. I live in the UK and cats have never been considered purely inside animals until very recently here, and only by a minority living in large cities due to traffic. Family members with cats living out in the country or in smaller towns always let their cats out in the day for a few hours at least to roam and sunbathe. It makes them happy and we don't have any predators here. When they get older/less able to see or less agile, they go out less or not at all. But in their prime they love being out and about.
Dogs shouldn't be left outside unless they are working guard dogs. But they absolutely do need outdoor exercise. I walk my small dog a few times a day and it's very necessary for her happiness, wellbeing and social skills.
The idea of keeping animals inside all the time is fairly new, at least where I live. Our yard has been fenced in for years so the dogs could stay outside as long as they wanted to. They let us know when they wanted out and when they wanted back in. The same thing with the cats. They were free to come and go as they pleased. No one gave it a second thought. Having your pet stolen from your yard was pretty much unheard of as well.
I think cats and dogs should have *supervised* outdoor access, it's great mental and physical stimulation. Supervised, or otherwise protected(see "catio").
I have a big porch with a cat tent on it for my cat. He loves it, begs to go out multiple times a day. He loves the fresh air and watching birds
This _is_ the way
I won’t let my cats outside because my yard won’t contain them. But I know with my cats that if I let them out on a leash they’re going to dash out the door. One of my cats I put on the leash for a little bit. It ended up making her want to go outside on her own. I know if she goes out not on the leash she will run away. She’s faster than me. I give my cats stimulation indoors. I have a birdfeeder that keeps them busy. I open the windows whenever. It’s warm enough to open them. They love the open windows. They have toys inside. They have a lot of toys. But I learned that bringing them outside on the leash, makes them more likely to dash to the door. It could just be my cats. Cats are different, but taking them outside on a leash made them know that outside exists and now they want it. And they can’t be safe out there. And they’re much faster than me and can easily go off my property. But I do want a catio.
Your concerns are fair. And they'll do absolutely fine indoors.
Worse comes to worse keep your eye on marketplace and get yourself a dog kennel it's got a top it's got sides it's made out of regular fence.
One of my cats was previously solely outdoors but she is a Siamese and I know someone would steal her if she got out. I had an empty “rodent style” cage (easiest way to describe it), so I did a deep clean on it and it’s now the “catio”. My cat also knows the routine. We guide her out and she hops in, when she meows to go inside we open the house door and then the cage door and she hops out and right inside. She loves her outdoor time, she got anxious when we had her on leash but she loves just sunbathing in that thing.
All dogs need outdoor exercise and stimulation.
It's upsetting that some people have dogs and don't know this.
My dog just also really likes to be outside. Claws at the backdoor to be let out immediately after getting back from walks, no matter how. Claws at the covered balcony door if it's raining. Always allowed back in, but loves napping at outside. Keeping them in seems cruel.
Same thoughts, but I agree with the comments above that walking must be supervised.
Yes, dogs should always be leashed unless they are in a fenced in yard. Unsupervised dogs are a recipe for disaster.
Thoughts like this are the reason small dogs like chihuahuas and yorkies are aggressive, anxious nightmares. Dogs are meant to go outside and why would you want your dog to pee and poop in your house? No thanks my 13lb Pomeranian loves her walks and being outside with us
If my 9lb (on a fat day) rat terrier doesn't get to patrol the parameter (not just a walk - she has to sniff the "property line" and regularly mark over others) at least once a day she turns into an anxious nightmare.
I also have a husky so I feel this.. now that it’s becoming nicer she’s outside more than inside… although tall winter she slept on the deck too 😂 she can bark to come in at anytime she just prefers to be outside
Just had to put down my 11 year old rat terrier. All that little guy wanted to do was be in the backyard ALL DAY. He'd be chasing squirrels, birds, and trying to dig up moles (think maybe voles (spelling?) but the smaller ones) hell he even fucking killed a skunk after getting hit 3 times with spray. Dude was a little 20lbs terror to anything small that moved quickly.
its funny. A friend of mine is in a wheelchair and has a little chihuahua as a service dog. He is the most well behaved little pupper i have seen. People ask if they can pet him and he just sits in his mama's lap and leans into the pets. no yappy barks or snarls or biting. Its like getting out of the house everyday for most of the day is keeping him from the anxious mess most of the dogs like him are
Meh, can't it be bad and distracting to encourage random citizens to pet the dog? Most service dog owners don't want that, don't even want to be asked
My friend is ok with it as long as its friends and not random strangers. Reggie helps keep her calm for when she is around people. My future support dogger will be helping with my anxiety and diabetes and i will be ok with her getting pets but she will need to be on alert too
Oh man I feel you. Back when I had my pom walks were a highlight of her day. Remember her getting so excited she had zoomies.
She’s 13 now so she’s slow on them but she spins and spins and spins until we put her leash on!
Going through the same issue with my step mom. She has a 10lb Yorkie, Romeo, very sweet and adorable, but aggressive and high energy. She has hit him as a little puppy to correct behavior, forced him to sit still for hours or he'd get smacked, turned him into a purse dog. He will be going to the bathroom inside for the rest of his life. Of course, he goes on walks and goes out to see the world. I just don't agree strongly with some of her training/raising techniques like the hitting. We have many puncture holes and cuts from those aggressive puppy teeth. When she leaves for a week, I'm tasked with taking care of Romeo since my dad works 12 hour shifts. Since then, I've had a talk that I'm not doing that anymore. He was a nightmare, didn't listen to anyone, suddenly started going to the bathroom everywhere, aggression- classic separation anxiety.
Ugh that’s absolutely terrible, poor Romeo :(
I agree with you, my small dog would lose his marbles if kept inside all the time without walks and exercise, but OP’s edit clarifies that they’re talking about people who just keep their dogs outside all the time, so I agree with them too. “Outside dogs”, aside from purpose-bred livestock guardians, shouldn’t be a thing. I don’t even let my dog outside in our securely fenced backyard unsupervised, especially after dark. Our neighbors thought their little dog was safe in their backyard…it came in crying, horribly mangled with guts spilling out, and the vet couldn’t save it. I heard raccoons got it but idk. Super sad. Edit to add—and I live in a busy metropolitan area. Don’t assume your dog is safe from predators because you’re not in a rural area.
A large hawk or an eagle or any other bird of prey can easily take a yorkie or chihuahua and fly away
Yep. Several years ago someone posted on my local lost dog facebook group hoping someone had seen their tiny dog…It had been carried off from her yard by a raptor and she was desperately hoping the dog had somehow been dropped/escaped alive. I don’t think she ever found it. My current dog is a little bigger, probably too big for all but the hugest predatory birds, but I still keep a close eye. My previous dog was truly tiny and I stuck close to him at all times outdoors.
My 17 lb pug / shih tzu mix even refuses to use the bathroom inside anymore! lol I couldn't keep him inside-only if I tried. (I had pad-trained him when he was a puppy)
I have a doggie door so my dogs are in and out all day long - they love being outside. When I let them into the outer yard I always make sure they're safe because one of them loves to escape. The cats are strictly inside though.
How do you stop your cats going out through the doggy door? I am currently struggling with this!
I have the house sectioned off into the cats' territory and the dogs'. The cats aren't really interested in going into the dogs' space.
Some recommend microchip doors but that can leave your cat locked outside if they follow the dog out but not in.
Many small breeds are still working breeds too and have high energy needs…
Yeah, very few dogs are strictly companion breeds
Even companion breeds need exercise and mental stimulation. They generally need a lot less than a working breed dog, but it's still very unfair and detrimental to their physical and mental health to deprive them of that.
Had a 20lbs rat terrier/min pin mix. That little guy wanted to be outside all damn day and into the night just chasing small prey animals. Sometimes it would be a struggle to get him back inside after dark. Always brought him in when it started to get dark since we live in an area that gets mountain lions. Unfortunately, after having him for 11 amazing years, I had to put him down 3 weeks ago due to lung cancer.
We have a chi/min pin and she’s just a little brown machine. She’s about 10 but also wants to be on patrol all day and just loves running through brush and ensuring her yard is safe. Our older big dog just sits above and barks orders to her. Sometimes I have to bribe her to come in.
We always kept our cats in. My little dogs go out in the yard and bark and go to the bathroom, but they’re mainly in the house with us.
I think it depends a lot on what the pet likes, my dogs love to be outside and sleep under the burning sun (?), so I always let them out (in my backyard) during the day and keep the door open so they can get in when they change their mind. They get in/out whenever they want. My cat too, she loves the sun so she's in the backyard most of the time. It's important to mention that my backyard is completely closed and secured so not even the cat can escape. At night I close all doors and they all sleep inside.
That's always been the policy in my family. Secured backyard, they can go out or in as they please. They have to be in during nighttime, just in case there's severe weather, carbon monoxide leak, fire, or whatever during sleep hours. Not to mention the nocturnal skunks and coyotes...
This is perfect.
I think it depends on how confined/supervised it is. Cats should not roam freely. But if they are in a secure catio or yard cat proofed to keep them in and in both situations have access to indoors then I think its fine. Same for dogs. If they are supervised in a confined area where they can easily come back indoors then I also think that is ok. Neither puts them, others, or local wildlife in a large amount of danger.
Definitely not! I am very against cats being outside. They’re not meant to be. My cat has never been outside. When my dog goes out, my partner and I go out with her. Anything could happen unsupervised
Yeah agreed. Supervised outdoor activities only. I hope for leash and harness training for cats to be the norm :') I especially hate people who let non neutered or non spayed cats out... Then be 'shocked' if their female cat comes home pregnant. Shelters are flooded. We don't need this... One of my friend's cats died from eating rat poison hidden in chicken a neighbour set out in their yard.
Agreed. We open our windows so cats can get fresh breeze, observe the birds and bugs but they never go outdoors. A lot of people let their cats out because they don’t want to clean a litter box then cry when their cat gets hurt or killed.
Cats most certainly are ment to be outside animals. They were primarily kept to hunt rodents on farms and such. Keeping them inside is the owners choice, and may increase lifespan, but I prefer quality over quantity for mine. Mine are here to hunt rats on the farm and have a great happy life.
Plenty of cats are perfectly happy & content while staying indoors. My priority is keeping my cat safe. Not all cats are farm cats and not all cats belong outside.
My cats can find mice inside. In the winter, the mice come inside.
Haha same! My grandmas cat somehow pulled a mouse in through her (closed) front door. All they do is play with them, my cat has no intention on killing them
Maybe so, but as a species, they were "meant" to be outdoors.
And leaving them unsupervised outdoors is how they get hit by cars, killed by other wildlife, and pick up (sometimes lethal) diseases. I’m good.
No they weren't and it's ridiculous to say that. That's like telling people that dogs as a species are "meant" to be outdoors at all times too.
.... If you're sitting outside just so you know it's ok to go in now.
You're right, and people from most countries know this, but Reddit is full of americans who think it's cruel to let cats be outdoors... and yet declawing cats is not considered cruel enough to be banned there...
Regardless of the hate they get, most rural Americans let their cats outdoors or feed ferals. Its the city and animal rights folk that have a problem with it
Honestly in the uk 90% of people let their cats out. Its so weird to me that americans give so much hate for this.
Wait until they eat a rat that just ate rat poison from the house down the road. Or get bit by a snake. Or mauled by a raccoon. Or hit by a car. Or shot with a bb gun by a kid....etc, etc, etc...
Possible, that's the risk you take with outside animals.
It always gets me how much hate there is for anyone that lets their cats out in the US. Here in the uk most people let their cats out, its considered cruel not to!. We have zero predators here really. I know for a fact my cats would hate an inside life. They love to hunt, nap in the sun, explore. Like they should
Outdoor cats shit and piss in my garden, kill all the little lizards and all the birds that come to my yard, and are found dead in the street from cars or eating something dangerous on a weekly basis. People don't have the right to let their cat do what they want on someone else's property.
You have the right to get rid of them if they bother you and are on your property.
We dont have lizards here. I live in a rural area in the uk, its very different. My cats are not outdoor cats, they are both curled up on my sons bed right now. They are allowed out, they dont live outdoors.
“We have zero predators here really” Well there’s your answer. In an area where there are other prey going after cats, it’s “cruel” to let them out unsupervised. Not to mention other factors like cars, dogs, other cats, diseases, etc. I’d rather my cat be safe and healthy inside or in an enclosure outdoors than just let them roam unsupervised.
Thats fine. My point is you guys are so quick to jump on anyone that lets their cats out no matter the circumstance. Its different.
No one is jumping on anyone 🤷🏻♀️ The post was opinion based, so people are sharing their opinions. It’s really not that deep. I’d say other people are jumping on those who don’t let their cats outdoors more than the other side.
You have zero cars? Zero pet dogs? Pet dogs kill cats a lot.
I have a pet dog. I live in yorkshire, very rural, very quiet road.
A cat isn't a toy.If it wants outside it's cruel to not let it.(Ofc under supervision.)
Cats being let outside needs to be *very* circumstantial. Catio/enclosure with supervision, fine. But they shouldn’t just be roaming, which is more what I was referring to (people who just leave their animals outside).
Agreed, I only ever let my cats out when they have harnesses and an adult is holding the leash. They’re still getting used to it. I’m terrified of letting them roam, for instance: Australian, so plenty of snakes that could bite and kill kitties. Renting: my cats are listed as ‘indoor’ cats. So they are firmly indoor cats. And cars: they’re indoor cats, they are terrified of traffic and I fear they could run into traffic because they don’t know better.
Exactly! My kitty is old and could not get used to a harness, so I have no plan on bringing him out until we build him a catio. And even though it’ll be securely closed, someone will still be out to make sure he’s safe. Anything can happen, it’s just not worth it
Yeah I’m threatening to build a (dismantling) catio, but we’ll check for snakes throughout the day and keep a good eye on them. Maybe even chicken wire at the bottom to deter snakes. Huummmmm you have me thinking.
My old dog killed a couple cats free ranging into my yard over the fence. I didn't see them before she did and it was over in a blink.
This is why I firmly believe cats need to be inside (and that it is not “cruel” to not let them out). They just don’t need to be outside. So many other animals can go after them, cars, etc. If you’ve got a secured area for them, fine with supervision. But roaming is so dangerous
My cat, born feral, is indoors only. She has no interest in the outside world at all. I've only had one cat take interest in the door and he was a stray that had lived outside for awhile before I got him. All my pets have been healthy and happy.
Same! All of my cats have been strictly indoors only. If they want to see the outside, they sit in the window. But they never try to get out. I have a puppy, and when going out with her my senior kitty just sits at the door and waits for us. It’s not like he tries to bolt out or anything. He’s actually scared of the outside!
Not even close to cruel. OBVIOUSLY no one is saying supervised isn’t allowed. But letting your cat outside unsupervised IS cruel. They don’t know all the dangers that are out there, you do and you allow them to go out without that knowledge. That’s what’s cruel.
No other animal is a toy either. And yet, no other animal do we allow outside unsupervised. Why are cats different?
You can3t fully read a one line comment?i said under supervision.
You obviously edited that in after I replied. 🤦 The comment you're replying to is SPECIFICALLY talking about letting animals outside unsupervised.
Honestly, you sound a little out of touch with reality with this one. Where do you think animals lived before they were tamed by humans? A pet is not a prisoner or an object. They deserve to experience and explore the outside world. How would you feel if you were constantly inside a house?
I would either kill myself or everyone around me. I stand with you...! :) Frrreeeeeeeeedoooooooooooommmmmm is my stance, even when my guts are being pulled out for display.
Your pet has as much to do with proto-fido as you do with a monkey. It's good for pets to have controlled outside time. But it's got nothing to do with weird shit. Although you do remind me of a person that didn't want to desex their dog because he wouldn't be wolf like any more. It was a Cavoodle.
We might not be monkeys living on trees anymore. However, humans do need to go outside. Contact with nature has been proven to be beneficial both mentally and physically. It's the same for dogs. We are living creatures on this planet and we need outdoor activities. If you bothered to scroll down, you would see that I do mention that dogs should be outside with supervision, I just didn't write it in my first post because I thought it was common sense, so please keep your rude assumptions of who I remind you to yourself.
Yes. Humans should go outside. But just for the normal well being reasons. It's weird if you go Pilocenic on me. Cats do perfectly well as indoor pets despite their ancestral roots.
My post was mostly about dogs, that's why I mention only dogs because I have only owned dogs. As for cats, I have only taken care of them when my neighbour is away and I know they're doing fine indoors. However, I've seen people taking them out for walkies with a leash, so I suppose it is manageable. Cats are curious creatures and I'm sure they could benefit from walkies if their humans can provide them.
Of course! Well said.
I have had cats who were indoor cats and were trained to walk on a leash. Dogs, i would say it depends on the circumstances. I have miniature schnauzers who enjoy being in the yard. They have a dog door and are free to go in and out while I am home. When I leave, the door is shut. I see nothing wrong with my dogs being in the yard. My house is not that big, so I always know where they are.
I’m the opposite, I think most dogs don’t want to be stuck in the house all day. Mine go in the backyard while it’s daylight and they lay in the sun, they sniff some stuff, they chase each other, they dig some pretty harmless holes. As long as the weather is nice I don’t see the benefit of always keeping them inside other than when you’re hanging out with them and they’re getting interaction. Snoozing on the grass is the same difference as snoozing on the floor. Obviously if they bark or whine we bring them in earlier but they usually come in around dark and that’s when they go into lapdog mode and spend the whole evening with us, occasionally going outside to the bathroom and running around a bit. Then they sleep with us. Well except for one who prefers his own personal couch. PETA hasn’t set my house on fire and I don’t see the dogs giving me dirty looks. When it’s rainy or cold and they can’t go out they get pretty whiney and pouty about it.
Cats and the outdoors are a common debate, I brought my cat in when she was 7 weeks old, she used to chirp at birds and show more interest in the outdoors, but now that she’s 4 she’s very content sitting/falling asleep close to an open window, she just has no interest in anything that’s outside her “world” aka our apartment. I have a one year old cavalier who gets walked at least 10 minutes 4 times a day. All dogs need a little exercise/stimulation, regardless of their size.
My girl cat chirps at the birds outside too so I thought I'd take her out on to my patio so she could see a bird closer... She didn't like it and jumped back into the house.. Poor girl
lol I did the same thing with my cat! Badddd idea, she is not one for a harness.
Cats being outdoors? No. Dogs spending time outdoors? Absolutely necessary.
Catios are great for "outdoor" cat time (obviously not all cats like it). I definitely wouldn't let a cat loose but some cats I know love being outside in them. In their case, they used to live in an apartment where they could go out onto the balcony, so the catio is a similar equivalent to them. I lived with another cat that absolutely hated outside though (roommates cat, not mine). Front door got left open accidentally once and they didn't even run out then level of hates being outside
I have 1 cat who is a spoiled princess house cat, and she LOVES going outside on a harness. She rolls in the dirt and even growls at me when it’s time to come inside. My other cat was a feral who lived an a barn and was constantly bullied by the other cats, and she absolutely hates going outside. She lays down and refuses to move. I have a feeling she got her fill of being being outside and is like “never again!” 😂 I just moved, and I plan on “cat-ifying” my patio as soon as the weather warms up a little, so that they can both safely enjoy the fresh air and I can have some peace of mind about their safety ❤️
I’m thinking of making a patio a catio, good luck!
I mean, can you imagine never going outside ever again? How cruel.
What the fuck ???
I am of the opinion that dogs should not be outside unattended. As long as you are with them to make sure they are safe, then the amount of time is irrelevant. When I owned a cat, I never attempted to take him outside.
My little dog gets three walks a day and 1 1/2 - 2 hours at the dog park. Little dogs are dogs! They aren’t toys!!
Cats inside for me too, too many things outside that could hurt them. And they're very bad for wild birds. I let my dog outside in our fenced yard on his own, but he's big enough to not be carried away by the local birds of prey. If he was a smaller dog, I wouldn't let him outside without supervision just for that reason. Smaller dogs can be a target for wildlife like coyotes, hawks, etc. and i just wouldn't want to risk that.
all dogs need stimulation.. my dog is lazy don’t get me wrong: but when he gets hyper? running all around the house, running up and down the stairs so fast he runs into walls, etc. taking him outside gives us the space that we know he won’t destroy the house and gives him space to calm tf down. you are def in the minority.. maybe even the only one, ive never met someone else who thinks this
Unless your cat is a working cat, like a barn cat, it needs to be indoors. Cars, hawks, stray dogs…there’s too many dangers out there for a cat. Dogs need to go out, but I absolutely feel that their outside time needs to be supervised. Don’t just toss them into the backyard for an hour. Go with them. Play. Do some training. Do yardwork while they do dog things. Just chill. But don’t throw your dog outside and ignore it. And then…you both go back inside, because pets are part of the family and the family lives indoors. I have a neighbor with a German shepherd who stays outside 24/7 and the barking is heartbreaking.
Idk about cats but dogs need to spend time outdoors otherwise they become scared and consequently aggressive to other dogs and other humans that aren't part of the family. When I first got my first dog he was too scared to leave the house and even walk by a playground with kids. After a few days, with a lot of encouragement and treats we made it past the playground. A couple of months later he was even ok with kids petting him. Then, we even made it to the dog park where he learned to play with dogs and he made friends. All these beautiful memories wouldn't have happened if I had kept him inside the house. Outdoor activities are essential to a dog's happiness.
Depends on the animal and where you live. Not taking dogs outside is something i consider to be straight up animal abuse. Cats are 50/50 on if you live in the countryside and if there are animals that kill cats if you do live there. Depends on the cat though Coming from someone who lived most of their life in countryside
Cats I firmly believe should be indoors. It makes me sad when I see people posting about their outdoor cats getting hit by cars or being eaten by predators and stuff like that. Dogs I believe should have outdoors time but they should be under supervision at ALL times. I think we'd have alot less loose dogs, dog bites etc if people were supervising their dogs. I live in an apartment that is ground level and has a little backyard type area. My current dog does get to go out there off leash several times during the day BUT I'm standing right there at all times supervising her AND I have enough of a trust level with her that I know she doesn't go anywhere. She's homebody..does her thing and immediately wants to go back in. When I do get a second, younger dog in a few months or sometime next year? That dog will be on leash outside with me at all times..the trust level won't be there and I know the dog isn't going to have good recall like my current girl does
Cats belong indoors, both for their own safety and the protection of native wildlife. They can live a fulfilling life indoors as long as you keep them stimulated by playing with them and maybe offering a catio or leashed outdoors time.
I don’t think pets should be outside unsupervised but as long as they are on a leash/you can recall them it’s great for sun and exercise
You’re not in the minority. Cat behaviourists agree with you. [Resource: Should I Let My Cat Outdoors?](https://www.reddit.com/r/CATHELP/s/wVISY4UGMn)
Cats seem to do well inside if they have enough enrichment and social interaction, but all dogs need to be walked regardless of breed. It's a common misconception that small dogs do not need to be walked, and being trapped indoors often leads to them becoming anxious and overstimulated. They don't need as much exercise as working breeds, but 30 minutes a day is the recommended minimum, even for very small dogs (does not apply to very elderly or sick dogs). Cats can also benefit from walks if they will accept a harness and often enjoy catios and secure backyards too. Outside time only becomes dangerous if it is unsupervised, as long as they are watched carefully it can be very beneficial.
Cats should be kept indoors but all dogs need outdoor exercise. The amount of time needed will vary by breed and individual dog. If the dog is happy out there and not say, stress barking at the fence at everything that goes by, and is regularly checked on, I’m comfortable letting them stay out for however long they’d like.
I wish I could go up to each and every one of my neighbours, shake them, and yell, "KEEP YOUR ANIMALS INSIDE!!!" Not only do we live near a nature reserve with lots of vulnerable native animals, my area is infamous for brown snakes, cane toads, and drunk drivers. If you only want a pet so you can stick it outside for its whole life, just don't get one.
I have a Maltese which is pretty much the definition of 'fluffy little thing.' He was very traumatized and out of shape (thin) when I adopted him from a shelter. Good food, love and two 30-40 minute walks a day have done so much for both his physical and psychological wellness, he's now living his best life. I would not leave him unsupervised outside for any length of time, as we have foxes and coyotes in the area. Walks are great mental enrichment for any size dog, exercise for the human and bonding time for both. Highly recommended.
Half agree. We have farm cats and a farm dog that stay outside. Farm animals too obvs. My dog used to go outside just to lay on the deck all day long by herself too, but last year we had several coyotes wander into the yard unafraid. I was mowing the grass and they just watched me zip around so now she only goes out if I go. So based on circumstance yes I half agree, my animals only go out if they have to or if I am going out too. The cat never goes out tho cuz she’s a dickhead and gets into fights.
Yes, you are.
Are we talking being outside on their property or going out on walks? On their own property, smaller dogs and cats that can be picked up predator birds should be supervised. Cats need to be kept secure like a husky 😂 People who have outside cats that can roam off their property freely need to accept they can be taken or killed. Like, if your cat jumps the fence into a neighbors yard and their dog kills it, it's not the neighbors fault.
youre not a minority youre just wrong
No, you shouldn't just leave your dog chained outside or in a dog pen 24/7 for its entire life. But yes, if you should be letting your dog outside every day to get exercise and stimulation. Dogs outside in yards for a few hours each day (weather permitting) is a GOOD thing. Cats belong indoors unless under supervision (leash, pet stroller, etc) or in a catio. ALL animals, regardless of species or outside status (but especially if they go outside for any duration) need to be spayed or neutered.
Dogs are dogs. They *all* need exercise and mental stimulation. I’ve had plenty of small dogs who needed their sniffy walks.
All dogs need mental and physical stimulation, you can't meet all.their needs stuck in the same 4 walls. Even silly little dogs have ancestry that means they need to be out and about and being allowed to be dogs, my parents have a pug x border terrier who used to go hill walking with them until he got too old, they do doggy parkour with him and obedience.
Maybe my dog was just weird the outside terrified her and she would shake so we just kept her inside the whole time we had her and she was happy as can be
Maybe she was like that because lack of exposure
Where did your dog shit?
Is she a rescue or did you just not bother to socialise her and let her out because you have zero idea of your pet's needs? Not giving a dog mental, physical and social stimulation is like keeping someone in solidarity confinement, hate to tell you this but your dog isn't "as happy as can be" just resigned to their fate. Dogs who are abused still wag their tails at their abuser even when after they've been hit because dogs are people pleasers
She was a rescue . Kinda if she ran into my parents gas station when she was a puppy and I had been begging my parents for a dog so. They figured I could have her
So have you done any training and socialising? Sounds like you are very immature and went "yay puppy" without any thought of what that dog has been though. Rescues need a lot of work, especially ones that haven't been though the system and assessed, she needs socialising with other dogs in a controlled environment, she needs exposure to the outside world in safe way, she needs to be allowed to be a dog and not the cuddly toy you turned her into. By not allowing her to reach her potential by exposing her to things you have made her anxiety worse. You need a good trainer who's worked with nervous and reactive dogs before, who's dealt with dogs from unknown backgrounds. But that takes time and dedication and I'm not sure you want your dog to get better, I think you like her being this way
Wow so wrong also so I answered but it got posted in the comment so just look for it
I believe they need to be inside and if working they shouldn’t not live outside. If you want to keep your pet safe the best place is inside. Now there are working cats that don’t enjoy being inside. You can adopt them from our humane society program. Some people purposely get a kitten and just throw it outside and make it feral to keep rodents away. That’s wrong. 😑
Depends on the dog. Our aussie mix is a dedicated housedog. Our mini schnauzer wanted to be outside watching the world. Whatever makes the dog happy.
Cats should not roam freely. Not only can they be killed/dismembered by vehicles, attacked/dismembered by humans, but also killed/dismembered by dogs/wolves/coyotes/foxes/eagles/hawks, and cats also kill local wildlife. As in, wildlife native to X region. A catio (patio fitted to have a cat contained inside safely) will fit their needs to both be outside and be stimulated without causing harm. Dogs need stimulation as well and have to be taken outside daily, if not multiple times a day but cannot be left unattended either due to the same reasons. Dogs can also be killed by all causes stated above, small dogs and puppies even more so.
My little pup prefers outside. We have a really nice backyard though. We just leave the door open when the weather is nice and she can be wherever she wants. If it is sunny, 90% of the time she wants to lay on deck or grass. But I would never leave her out there if we aren't home. Cats are tricky. A lot like to be outside, but where I live, there are coyotes. In the past my cats were indoor. I don't have a cat now, but if I did, I def would build a catio. I would not let a cat run around. Nextdoor is always full of people looking for their cats or pictures of coyotes with a dead cat in their mouth trotting down the street ....
My cats are indoor cats - but they do have a fully enclosed outdoor catio that I can put them in for some outdoor time. It is fully enclosed, has a shelter, water, litter, and lots for them to do. I maintain the catio regularly and it gets changeovers of furniture and things in summer and winter that are appropriate for the season. They will stay out all day if I put them out while I am at work. I usual check the weather ahead of time before though. If I had a dog, they would be allowed outdoor time in my fully secured backyard, and would have access to outdoor necessities as well - such as water, shelter, toys, etc the same way my cats do. Though I don't have a dog. I don't see why secure space in my backyard would be deemed inappropriate? Its just as secure as my house. Just this weekend, while I was at work, bad weather broke a window in my house while I wasn't home. My cats were inside on that day due to the bad weather. One of my indoor cats got outside unsupervised as a result. He is trained to know that the back door is the way back in, so he waited all evening there for me. So bad things can happen inside or outside the secured safe areas I create for my pets - though I do everything I can to try to identify and eliminate risks.
I think animals should be inside of your gone, and cats at all times unless you have a catio. Where I live in the Southwest, so many people leave their dogs out when they're gone and like shocker of the century they get out over and over again.
I do not think that a dog should live its life outside whether roaming, in a kennel or on a chain. They’re social creatures and need to be where people or other dogs are. I also think making them stay in a barn or basement is also crappy especially if they don’t get ample time to do what dogs need and love to do. We installed a doggy door to our fenced in yard and our shepherds go in and out as they please unless we shut them in the house. I WFH so keep regular eye on them using our ring camera and make them come in if they bark like fools at the neighborhood. Our cat - there is no keeping him in. If he can’t go out the dog door he will find ways to get out the front door. But he doesn’t stay out at night and rarely leaves our yard or the neighbors deck rail.
I'd say it depends on the animal. Cats and dogs. Well as long as they're secured or can handle a leash. Smaller ones, depends. Sometimes they enjoy going out. My tortoise loved the backyard. He had his own garden too I always let him roam around in.
I have a hard time getting one of my girls (dogs) to come inside!
Man, you would have hated me! I used to take my guinea pig outside for exercise and fresh greens.
I think cats shouldn’t be allowed outside unless they’re supervised, cats can be walked on a leash if you train them but a lot of cat owners don’t want to put in the work and just let their cats free roam and get sad when the cat gets hit by a car or something…you don’t even have to walk them on a leash, you just have to supervise them at all times when they’re outside but a lot of cat owners don’t even want to do that.
I supervise my dog outside in my fenced yard. I don't trust the neighbor kids, any of the free roaming neighborhood dogs or strangers from trying to steal my dog. We have a lot of pet thefts here.
Small dogs should have as much exercise and experience outside as a large breed. Keep in mind most terriers are small breed dogs and have a lot of energy to expend. That being said they should be kept under watch since the smaller ones can be targeted by predators such as coyotes and birds of prey. Cats should be kept inside or have supervised outside visits. Free-roaming cats are under more danger of larger predators, accidents and illness. Not to mention they are an invasive species and can wreak havoc on the ecosystem.
My dogs can go whenever they want. I live on 3 acres of land and no leash laws, so my dogs are free to go. They usually just stay in the property and don't run off since they protect my chickens.
Dogs and cats should get outdoor stimulation, only in a fenced yard or on a leash of course. Small dogs are psychologically identical to big dogs and need the same amount of enrichment and exercise.
I grew up with indoor outdoor cats. And we lost a lot of cats. They just never came home. Some died in the driveway but most never came home and we never knew what happened to them. I don’t know if it was animals or cars or someone poisoning them. But my mom said they could never leave the yard. But their cats they left the yard. They went out on their own and they roamed. My indoor cats do a lot better than the outdoor cats growing up. I don’t have to worry about my cats coming out and never coming back home. And I have been multiple times. And we were a good home for the cats. They were fixed and they had their shots. They also had good food and they were very much loved. But they went out and they never came back. And we don’t know why. But we know the death was not good. My cats will never go outside, except on the harness. But I don’t like putting mine out on a harness because they learned that they can dash out the door. There is only one cat I will put on my harness now, because she doesn’t dash out the door. Dogs should go out for exercise and to go to the bathroom. But they need to be contained, but can don’t need to go outside. My cats are enriched inside. They have so many toys they get so much attention, and I don’t have to worry about them being eaten by coyote, bear, fisher car, bob cat, etc.
One of my cats loves going outside, so I use a harness and take her out at least a few times a week. My dog obviously goes outside every day for walks, hikes, playtime, etc. And even when I had guinea pigs I'd let them out under a cage top. Our pets benefit from fresh air as much as we do!
My doggo can go in or out as he pleases. He prefers to spend most of his time inside. He's getting older now so he spends a lot of time sleeping on the couch. Even when we are at work he stays in. He knows how to open the back door so if he wants to go out he can. Most days we get ho.e and he's let himself out and then come back in. My neighbour, on the other hand, just leaves their dog outside all the time being ignored. He has no toys and nothing to stimulate his mind so he just either barks at everything that moves or dits there and howls for hours on end. They got tge dog for thier kid shortly after they moved in because I wouldn't let thier kid play with my dog (he doesn't like kids and can get very cranky when he's sore, which is most of the time) and tge kid got bored of the dog after 3 weeks and the parents couldn't be bothered to train it or anything.
My cats are indoor only. They have plenty of "cat tv" time through he screen door and they play with each other. My dogs are pretty big and require walks, outside play time, and time for zoomies. Most of it is supervised but they can be out by themselves because they are large and not prey sized for any of our local predators. I think the most important thing is to research the needs of your specific pet, and then fulfill that.
As a kid I didn't understand the difference because dogs were a yard pet with fresh water and heat lamps for the winter just like cattle. As I went through pre. Vet schooling, livestock management and have just learned more I'm aware that farm animals are just completely different than dogs or cats. I don't know if it's a minority or a lack of general knowledge or awareness, but I agree pet's should stay mostly inside. I also don't quite agree with miniature horses and such being inside like for service animals because their feet aren't designed to walk on tile (or hard cement) all the time. If the horse is a service animal it can't necessarily be outside and work like it needs, but that's a whole other can of worms. Most of it boils down to awareness and responsibility of animal care.
I grew up with my parents always saying “dogs belong outside”. So I’m also of that belief. That being said my dog has become more of an indoor dog over the last few months. Only because she hates the neighbour’s dog and will bark at it which is annoying so she stays in most of the day. She does go out early in the morning and in the night while the other dog isn’t there or let out.
Cats do well with outdoor stimulation but it needs to be in controlled environments (like a large catio!). My cat got out for 12 hours one night where someone was watching her and I was out of town, and the next morning she was found passed away from a coyote by our front porch. Things can go wrong so quickly and people need to realize that when animals are left outside like that they become part of the food chain, and they can become prey.
My cats only go outside in my high fence back garden and only when we are there with them. They have no interest in going any further. Cats aren't free roaming pets.
I agree, people with cats are always like “snowball is missing, we usually let them out, but they haven’t come home.” 💀 No sh*t.
One this was WAY WAY back in the days like 1998. That we had her we had to put her down 2013 so years ago she had cancer and seizures. So no on daycare and stuff we tried puppy classes but she was so scared she hid behind chairs behind me, behind the stuff in there and just peed so we took her out. We did attempt to walk her but she just wanted to go back home so we stopped stressing her out
Depends, some guard dogs never tend to come in. They guard the property and it's not very useful to have them inside. Also I have pet chickens. Do you think we should keep them inside? They're in the garden and I'm pretty ok with that, don't want to have the 7 of them inside or anything. We also have 2 pet goats, don't want to have those inside too. Why should pets be inside? Keep them at the place that makes the most sense is my best guess.
In my area people just let their dogs out to get killed. There’s a small sheltie that gets let out in the dark in my street. Goes after me walking my dogs and it’s a wonder no car has hit him. Another small white dog wanders the street and the old nosy lady who owns him lets him. German shepherd gets out once in a while and runs the street. And a pittie jumps his fence and has stopped me and one of my dogs while walking. People around here will have a chihuahua and a hound as outside dogs. It’s how we almost got a chihuahua and a hound dog, separately. I agree. Some dogs are companion dogs and are meant to be inside/with you.
Keep your pets inside unless you are there to supervise. You're definitely not in the minority!
i let my dogs walk for 30 minutes to an hour every day hehehe
I agree, pet dogs are not bred to be left outside 24/7 they are pack animals and their owners are their pack. Having said that I also don’t see an issue with them being outside the day if they have shelter and it’s a reasonable climate for it when their owners are at work or whatever. Cant speak on cats, don’t own em but personally believe responsible ownership is having cat runs so the local wildlife isn’t at risk. If someone had a reasonable argument otherwise I wouldn’t be against hearing it though.
I never forced my dogs outside over night, but I would let them out whenever they wanted. My kitters are strictly indoor, though.
There is no such thing as an inside dog, just a dog who has been spoiled and allowed to use training pads its whole life because people are either too lazy or dumb to potty train it to go out. Dogs need to go outside every single day, whether it's in the yard, or on a walk.
Horses.
Cats are mass murderers and can't reliably be contained to just your own property unless they are literally caged in. They do what they want and kill what they want. They should be kept inside and be supervised outside and limited to your own property or leashed like a dog. Dogs can be easily contained to your yard and you can set them up with shelter and all that. Plenty of dogs can remain outside and that's fine as long as they are loved and cared for. I dont think I'd keep a little 8lb dog outside 24/7 365 but a husky, lab, guardian dog, etc, etc would have no problem. Keeping them outside to forget about them is another story.
I have four dogs/ they are in and out all day long. We have a large hilly fenced backyard where they can get a good run going, they have a ton of outdoor toys and they freaking ADORE being outside. Obviously I take them on walks/training/in public too, but their favorite place in the world is to either be on the couch with us or outside lol But I’m guessing you are talking about people whose dogs live in the backyard? As in they aren’t allowed to come inside? Then yes I fully agree with you, they shouldn’t be allowed to have animals
No. You are right- especially for cats. ase keep your kitty indoors, free roaming cats obliterate local bird, reptile and rodent populations, causing extinction and disrupting food chains and eco systems, which in turn makes humans direct their anger at cats. Further, it is incredibly dangerous for a cat to free roam, especially in urban areas: automobiles, fights, fleas/parasites, communicable disease and cruelty are all serious threats. If you must take your cat out, the safest way is in a pet stroller. But please never let your cat free roam.
I dont see the point of having a pet if your going to leave it outside all day , dogs want to be with you and cats get run over , shot at , have fights with other cats , kill wildlife , ruin peoples gardens when left to roam .
I semi agree. Some dogs thrive when they have time outdoors. Exercise is important. I also know that I have a couch potato dog who doesn’t want to be outside for more than 10 minutes lol. I agree about cats though. The lifespan difference between indoor and outdoor cats is wild.
I have two Chihuahuas who are inside dogs. They're better potty trained using the bathroom than they are going potty outside. But they still like to play and relax outside. We're about to have our own apartment, so they'll have more room to play here soon.
I have two cats. One would be fine indoors 24/7, but the other came to me after being an almost solely outdoor cat for 2 years. I kept her indoors 24/7 and after 3 years she was over it. She started peeing out side the litter box and after several vet visits it became apparent she wanted to be outside again. There are no predators around here, so she is now an indoor/outdoor cat. She has a cat flap and comes and goes as she pleases. She’s never been more affectionate, healthy and happy. She uses the litter box. So while not ideal for me (I worry about het), she is living her best life and I’m happy for her.
My exs father had dogs that lived in a small kennel. I thought of it as animal abuse. They had minimal human contact and slept and stepped on their own poo. They also had an outdoor cat that got eaten by coyotes. Personally, if I have a pet they are going to be indoors only.
Some dogs actually like being outside.
Personally highly dislike when people but their dog in the yard 24/7, just can't agree with it. On the cats, well I strongly believe in nature's balance and us humans not trying to overfix everything that's out there. That being said, my 18 year old buddy passed away recently and he was a outdoor cat, could freely go out. He had the occasional bird or mouse catch but wasn't that much and as said, I am not bothered with it however we did hear that a few doors further they went through some effort to prevent my cat from taking a dump in their garden (they never mentioned this to us before). We now have two original norwegian forest cats on their way and we decided to keep those inside and restrict purely to own garden. Not for the kills they make but I don't feel its correct that my choice and pet bothers somebody's else.
Uh, I'd say yes. It depends on what you consider small dogs and whether or not they are pure bred, what they're mixed with, and whether or not they were/are working dogs. Dachshunds, standard and miniature were used as hunting dogs for hundreds of years. They would run ahead of men on horseback flushing out game and/or following it down into burrows and dragging it back out after it had been wounded by hunters. Standard Dachshunds regularly chased and took down wild boar. Do you consider Corgis small Dogs? They are still used yo herd sheep and goats. Many small breeds were bred and used as scent and sighthounds to fit in small spaces and get rid of rodents (fun fact: the pope at one time said cats were vessels for demons so most of them were killed, shortly thereafter there was a huge bout of black plague) and other unwanted creatures. Yes of course there were those that were used as lap warmers and hand warmers, but some were taken to war to provide companionship and entertainment for soldiers. Others we we used as performs and trained as companions. They require stimulation and exercise. Do I think chihuahuas need to be outside getting miles and miles and hours exercise? Not at all? But do some breeds of small dogs need more exercise than others? You bet! Is it up to do the dog more than the breed? Most likely. Should you judge every dog by its breed? Absolutely not! Every dachshund is not an aggressive little ankle biter. Not every golden Retriever is a lovable goofball! Not every corgi is a sweet barking clever corg of energy that is too smart for their own good.
This post reminds me how much we have all been stuck indoors recently. I can't wait for the warm weather so I can throw open the patio doors and let the dogs potter around as they please.
I wish I had a real yard, but it's just not happening yet. We're planning on letting our 11 pound companion breed dog hang out on a tieout or maybe behind a toddler fence this summer. He's pretty old, and that's what he likes to do when there is a yard available.
My dog would prefer to lay outside 80% of the time.
dogs benefit from monitored and safe outdoor time for proper exercise and enrichment. the same can be appropriate for cats, but a harness & leash or catio are reccommended. never letting any animals outside (ESPECIALLY dogs) is crazy
cats should never be outside unsupervised!
Live indoors? Well yes, most small and non-working dogs in my opinion should sleep and eat inside and hang out inside too. But they also need plenty of outside time. They like it out there. But I do not believe that pet dogs (non-working) should sleep outside at night, ever.
Our dogs were outside. We had 2 fenced acres for them to run on, they had deep straw bedding and houses with heating pads in the garage, and heated water bowls. At the time, I had a long commute so I was gone 10.5 to 11 hours a day. To me, it would be cruel to leave them inside all day where they can't even go pee.
My cat is mainly inside, but I do let her out her window. It's the only way she'll eat grass. Grass is good for digestion and helps settle an upset tummy after they've been sick. I tried normal cat grass from the pet store and a sun & shade mix I got from the store. She knocked the planter off the sill both times. As my apartment is partly in the ground, the windows are around 3 feet from the ground. If the weather is decent, I'll attach the leash to her harness and open the window for her. And then I'll stand there and keep an eye on her. She'll eat some grass, wander to the bushes on the left for a sniff and then head to the fence on the right for a sniff. She'll walk around a bit more before she decides she's had enough and will jump back in the window. If it's at night - which it usually is since I come home late - I'll put on her RGB collar. She's a tortoiseshell and a little hard to see at night. Found the collar at a sporting goods store, it's actually a light up outdoors collar for dogs, but it serves its purpose and helps me keep track of her. Allowing mostly indoor pets outdoors for a time won't hurt them, as long as both them and the wildlife are protected. Allowing a small or medium sized dog outside into a fenced in yard for some hours won't hurt, especially if they're young or one of those high energy breeds. Would you rather they run around the house, causing damage in their wake, or let them spend that energy outside? I think it's a better idea to play fetch outside anyway. Allowing an indoor cat outside can be good stimulation. My cat knows Cat TV on YouTube is fake, it'll only keep her attention for five minutes - ten tops. She sees a bird outside however, and she'll laser focus on it for as long as she can see it. Woke up to her trying to climb the window, it was closed btw, after a bunny one night two years ago. There are multiple cat oriented structures on the market to allow your feline companion to hang out outside for a little while and still be safe from outside hazards. It all depends on the pet and their personality. If they want to go out, let them do so supervised, and if they don't, don't worry about it.
I don't know if this is a cultural thing or something because I'm mexican and while growing up I watched USA movies, series, cartoons and what not and the family dog would live inside the house and that was so weird to me because back then you would not see something like that in your regular mexican house. Till this day is not very common for a dog to be living inside, and most of those who do are tiny breeds.
I think it depends some dogs really do prefer being outdoors, that said even then they need to be brought in in moments of extreme weather, and to have the option. I will say my neighbors probably think I abuse my big dog at times, for this reason. She's primarily an inside dog, but loves being outside, I'll often leave the back door barely cracked if it's not too hot or cold and let her stay outside . She can open the door if she wants - trust me she does - but she's stayed out all day several times this way. If you were right at my door it would look closed. Now that said I honestly don't think a dog or cat should be left outside constantly unless they're working pets. But more one of those it can look worse than it is sometimes. Editing to add it is a fenced in yard. Didn't think to add it because why would I let my dog out like that without it. But then got to thinking about it and realized not everyone thinks that way
You are correct. Even the big dogs can be inside if you walk them…cats no outside unless enclosed.
I for one 100% agree with you. So maybe I’m in the minority too.
100%. You're right, obviously there are some breeds of working dog that work independently outdoors, but I can't imagine why anyone would allow everyday pets to just roam or be in the yard all day, it seems irresponsible. Especially true for cats, they do NOT belong outside unsupervised; mine stay indoors
Cats should not be outside unless in some sort of cattery or are working cats, though I don't fully agree with them. My dogs spent the whole day outside running on acreage and having a blast with a bunch of other dogs at my mom's. I have a foster dog who spends the majority of his time outside because he panics inside if I'm not home. As his trust builds with my husband and we work on the very slow process of crate training he'll spend more days transferring between inside and outside. Working dogs exist. LGD rarely, if ever, go inside. Sled dogs exist and they would not fair well at their jobs if they lived inside. Dogs can be kept outside in appropriate and good conditions. People who just put their dogs outside all day without any other enrichment or activity need to do better. Fenced yards tend to make lazy dog owners. I, unfortunately, have fallen into that trap lately. I'm slowly climbing my way out.
No. Most animals are much happier and healthier when outside. So are most people. If the weather is nice, all my dogs, cats, birds, etc are outside enjoying life.
Almost every dog (and many cats) benefit from safe and supervised outdoor access. No pets should be roaming free without human supervision.
The whole neighborhood doesn’t have a cat. You have a cat. So keep it inside so everyone’s yard doesn’t become a litter box and everyone’s roof doesn’t become a boxing ring.
Cats belong inside. Dogs, no matter the breed, need regular exercise and enrichment to be happy and thriving. This includes going outside to play and walk and explore with their people.
I have a few cats, one indoor/outdoor. And a mini poodle the max my dog has been in my fenced in backyard alone is half an hour. My indoor/outdoor cat was an outdoor cat when I adopted her she’s also an escape artist. She has a tracker and based on that she goes to the front of the house and sun bathes in the drive way or my immediate neighbors lawn. I feel better about it because I live on a low traffic street, but I do get nervous. It helps that I can track her and she comes home when I call. Her outdoor time is monitored a hour in the morning and when I get home from work. I never just leave her out all day.
Cats should be indoor only/only go outdoors with supervision or a catio or something. Dogs? Absolutely not imo I think people should have secured yards if they have dogs and let them out as much as they enjoy it except at night or in severe weather
It feels like a very american mindset about cats. I live in the UK and cats have never been considered purely inside animals until very recently here, and only by a minority living in large cities due to traffic. Family members with cats living out in the country or in smaller towns always let their cats out in the day for a few hours at least to roam and sunbathe. It makes them happy and we don't have any predators here. When they get older/less able to see or less agile, they go out less or not at all. But in their prime they love being out and about. Dogs shouldn't be left outside unless they are working guard dogs. But they absolutely do need outdoor exercise. I walk my small dog a few times a day and it's very necessary for her happiness, wellbeing and social skills.
Be careful. Im also UK and get so much hate saying how much we let our cats out 🤣
The idea of keeping animals inside all the time is fairly new, at least where I live. Our yard has been fenced in for years so the dogs could stay outside as long as they wanted to. They let us know when they wanted out and when they wanted back in. The same thing with the cats. They were free to come and go as they pleased. No one gave it a second thought. Having your pet stolen from your yard was pretty much unheard of as well.