The author, John Marek, is a writer and CEO of the Anson Economic Development Partnership.
When I was a kid, my older sister Bonnie, who lived with her husband and kids of her own a few miles down the road, had a dog named Patches. Bonnie always called Patches a Beagle, but my recollection is that he was more of a Beagle mix. Patches lived his entire life at the end of a 15-foot chain in the far corner of their suburban backyard. He had a doghouse for shelter and, as far as I could tell, was adequately fed and watered. He often climbed up on top of the doghouse and sat there surveying the yard, just like Snoopy in the Peanuts cartoons.
If I am being honest, I was always just a little afraid of Patches. When I would play in the backyard with my nephews, he would run to the end of his chain and bark maniacally at us. If I tried to pet him, he would jump all over me. He wasn’t a large dog, 30 pounds maybe, but at barely twice that weight myself, he could be intimidating. I avoided him.
In the present-day context, it would be easy to criticize the way we dealt with Patches, but the fact is, that’s more or less the way dogs were treated in the ’60s. Even the most beloved and famous dog ever, Snoopy, was kept outside and received limited interaction from his family, especially when he was battling the Red Baron.
Certainly, there were house dogs, but they tended to be the smaller breeds: Toy Poodles, Chihuahuas and Pekinese. It would have been considered highly unusual in those days to have a larger sporting or working dog living in the house full-time with the family.
The dog that changed that perception for many was the Labrador Retriever. Labs were bred as hunting dogs, specifically to retrieve downed game on land or in the water. Somewhere in generations upon generations of selective breeding for obedience, focus and athleticism, the genes for docileness and loyalty also found their way in, and families of the ’70s and ’80s discovered that Labs were far better house dogs than the yippy little toy breeds they’d been living with. The acceptance of Labs led to the approval of other larger breeds into the home. These days, it’s common to see everything from German Shepherds to Weimaraners to Great Danes lounging on the family sofa.
One of the driving forces behind the changing attitudes toward house dogs is the desire to strengthen the bond between humans and their canine companions. Dogs are no longer seen merely as pets but as integral members of the family. By keeping them inside the house, we are able to forge stronger emotional connections, share living spaces and provide constant companionship. Dogs thrive on human interaction, and being part of the family unit enhances their well-being and overall happiness.
Another factor influencing the shift is the growing concern for the safety and security of our furry friends. Outdoor environments expose dogs to various hazards, such as extreme weather conditions, potential accidents and encounters with aggressive animals or humans. Owners can mitigate these risks by bringing dogs indoors and ensuring their pets’ safety. Additionally, indoor living allows for better monitoring of their health and immediate response to any emergencies.
Living indoors also provides dogs with increased mental stimulation and socialization opportunities. Within the home, they are exposed to a wider range of stimuli, including sights, sounds and smells. This exposure aids in their cognitive development and helps prevent behavioral issues that may arise from boredom or isolation when kept exclusively outside. Furthermore, being part of the household exposes dogs to positive interactions with humans and other pets, fostering their social skills and overall well-being.
While current trends lean toward keeping dogs inside, it’s essential to acknowledge that each dog’s needs and circumstances differ. Some breeds are better suited for outdoor living, requiring ample space and specific environmental conditions. In such cases, creating a safe and comfortable outdoor living area with appropriate shelter, regular exercise and social interaction is the best solution for both the dog and the family.
Alternatives such as “doggy doors” or designated indoor areas with access to secure outdoor spaces can be a balanced compromise. These setups enable dogs to enjoy the best of both worlds, with the freedom to roam indoors while having supervised outdoor time for physical activity and stimulation.
As I sit writing this with my German Shorthair Pointer, Millie, snoozing at my feet, I’m reminded that down through history, dogs have generally not had it so good, and all I can think is, I’m so sorry, Patches. So very sorry.