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Dogs & Backyards

5/6/2014

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PictureJack is available to adopt!
Article and photos courtesy Our Pack Inc.

People often tell us that they feel their dogs need lots of space and a big backyard to roam and frolic in while they're away working or running errands. While dogs are all individuals and respond differently to environments, in general, a backyard where squirrels run along fences, neighbor's dogs are barking at the fence line, and other exciting things are going on, is not the best place for many dogs to hang out while you're gone.

This can cause your dog to become frustrated and bored. They do not exercise themselves in a healthy way and they can potentially become more nervous and anxious.

There are dogs that do fine with hanging out in the backyard while their people are away, but many don't. Some will dig out of the yard, get out and get into trouble or get hit by cars.

Typically, dogs don't frolic and run around happily in large spaces when their people leave. They generally find a small spot on a couch or chair, curl up and sleep until you come home. However, as a puppy, they're more likely to become bored and chew on things if left in the house unattended.

PictureBetty - a sweet girl available to adopt!
Dogs that live in backyards full time without any leadership and training tend to become disassociated from their own family members and generally under socialized. They also don't learn to live in the house and learn house rules. A vicious cycle ensues where owners feel that they just can't have the dog in the house at all. This is simply due to the lack of training and exposure to the house.

The answer is to find a smaller place to contain your dog inside where he's not exposed to the excitement of the goings on outside and items in the home that are tempting to chew on. He can rest, chew on a bone or toy, and relax until his folks get home. He can go in a small room or a crate.

This way he stays out of trouble, can't destroy the house and will generally be much happier and calmer. Try it out or call in a trainer to help you if you think your dog might be having behavior issues due to being left unattended in the backyard for long periods.


Picture
Our Pack, Inc. is a 501c3 non-profit pit bull and Chihuahua rescue group based in the South San Jose Bay Area. Its mission is to promote compassion and kindness towards these breeds. 

Our Pack rescues dogs from shelters, educates the public about pit bulls and Chihuahuas and facilitates lifelong bonds between dogs and their people through training and education. In addition, they also offer training for dogs in shelters and foster homes.
 

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