January 4, 2012
Posted in Pet Food, Pet Health

It used to be a common trend to find dogs tethered in suburban yards, seeking shelter in dog houses and playing with family members outside. However, in recent decades, almost all domestic dogs have made the migration inside. Since our knowledge of canines has progressed, we have learned that keeping them outside all the time is not good for their physical or emotional health.

From poisonous plants to the elements, keeping a dog outside is not always a good idea. The news source reports that the biggest danger of all is weather. Dogs that are not bred to spend time in cold weather can freeze to death, while others can die of heat stroke in hot climates. Short-haired breeds like Labrador retrievers, Weimaraners, beagles and greyhounds are most susceptible to hypothermia, but even thick-coated pooches like Huskies or Newfoundlands may get cold if left outside too long. If you are planning on keeping your pooch outside for any period of time, make sure you offer it some pet supplies like the Lectro-Soft Outdoor Heated Bed to give it a nice warm place to curl up.

If you live in hot climates, it is important to keep a watchful eye on all breeds. Short-nosed breeds such as pugs and bull dogs have an especially difficult time in the heat because they have a  harder time ridding their bodies of excess heat by panting. If you have to leave your dog outside for any period of time in hot weather, always make sure there is plenty of cold water in its DuraPet Dish & Bowls. The news source reports that most healthy dogs can tolerate the heat as long as they have some shade. While a crate like the iCrates may be a good place for your dog to retreat to, it may help to put it in the shade or put something over it to cool it down.

In addition to water and shelter, it is important to leave your dog enough food while it spends time outdoors. Petcurean Go! Natural Grain Free Endurance Formula Dry Dog Food is a good option for active dogs, and putting it in a puzzle like the Buster Food Cube may keep your pooch out of trouble in the yard. 

Related posts:

1. Should dogs wear sunscreen?
2. Sleeping habits of dogs
3. Legends of pet ownership
4. Keeping your pooch’s ears healthy and clean
5. How to help a trembling, cowering canine