The Backyard Dog

They are just about everywhere, in almost every neighborhood. A dog left alone in a backyard tethered to a tree, to the ground, or sometimes to a doghouse. Water and food bowls may be empty, absent or just beyond the dog’s reach. Isolated and captive, a backyard dog suffers. Dogs, like humans, did not evolve as solitary creatures; they are essentially pack animals and thrive in the company of others. As domesticated companion animals they need the connection that comes from the pack: you and your family.

     They are the barking, whining, destructive dogs living in someone’s yard, trying their hardest to attract attention of any kind. Even getting someone to come outside and yell at them offers the reward of contact. People that consistently keep their dogs outside rationalize, saying they spend time with the dog when working in the yard, taking a walk or throwing a ball for a few minutes. Providing food, water and some engagement is not enough if once you’re back in the house, the dog is again isolated.

 One of the most efficient ways for bonding to take place is for the dog to share your home with you. When your dog is alone, abandoned and living outside, they become stressed, anxious, bored and frustrated. In addition to destroying two of their strongest instincts: bonding and denning, these factors may also lead to illness, aggression and destructive behaviors. 

     All this is not to say that one must spend every minute catering to and entertaining the animal. Training will allow bringing them indoors to join the you, even if it is just lying nearby as you read or watch TV. Many times the dog may just curl up under your feet and sleep; otherwise, providing a fun, appropriate chew toy keeps them happy! The important thing to remember is that being incorporated into the family pack is both comforting and necessary for your dog’s mental and physical well being.