It used to be that dogs would live outside with their kennel, bed and bowl, but these days more dogs are being kept inside. If you're a new dog owner and wondering if you should keep your dog inside or outside, there are some things to consider.
1. Breed and size of your dog
Some breeds are built for inside whereas others are best suited to stay outside.
I live in an apartment, so did my research to make sure I was getting a breed that was comfortable being inside an apartment a lot.
The size of the dog you have is also important, although some breeds can be deceiving. I know multiple people who have labradors or greyhounds in apartments, but at the same time, I grew up with our silky terrier living outside.
2. Your personal habits
If you like your house to be pristine clean at all times, you might want to opt to keep your dog outside. You can keep your home clean with a dog, but there is still going to be a mess at some point, and you need to make sure you're ok with it.
The other consideration when it comes to your habits is how often can you walk your dog or give it the option to get out to pee.
I have friends who have dog walkers to help exercise their dog when they aren't able to get home early or have plans after work.
3. What space is available
The most significant consideration is the space you have. If like me you live in an apartment with a small balcony you're likely to keep your dog inside. I know people with an acreage who believe dogs belong outside period, so have built their dogs a pen that still gives them space to run but keeps them contained as well.
4. Either way, you need to train your dog
Whether you choose to keep your dog inside or outside, you need to make sure you train them to suit their living arrangements.
Toilet training - If you keep them inside you need to train them to go inside on a toilet, I have a real grass toilet in my apartment. The other option is to use a doggie door, so your dog can access outside when needed. For outside dogs, it's still worth teaching them good toilet habits.
Good greetings - This works for both inside and outside dogs, making sure your dog knows how to greet guests is a must.
General behaviour - If your dog lives outside, you need to make sure they don’t try to escape or dig up your yard. For an inside dog, you have to make sure they aren't chewing up the house or barking at every noise or movement.
The only person who can answer the question "should I keep my dog inside or outside" is you.
It comes down to personal preference, personal circumstances and the dog you have.
