There are a lot of discussions about whether a dog should be an inside dog or is to be kept outside. However, the benefits of an indoor dog outnumber the benefits of having an outdoor dog. Dogs that live in the house are not susceptible to contracting infections, parasites; they are also not exposed to traffic accidents or the ingestion of plants or garbage that may be poisonous. Dogs that spend time indoors will live a longer and more qualitative life.
Reduce Infection by Parasites
Dogs often catch skin and intestinal parasites from other dogs, from infected saliva, feces or through direct contact.
An inside dog will not be exposed to fleas, mites, bed bugs, tapeworms or hookworms.
In addition to discomfort, parasites will also cause stress, which may reduce the lifespan of dogs.
Prevent Traffic Accidents
Unfortunately, traffic accidents are among the most common reasons for dog death. An accident can cause severe wounds or fractures and in the worst case scenario, death. Indoor dogs are not in danger of getting hit by cars.
Minimize Infections and Diseases
Infections and diseases are transmitted from other dogs though direct contact or through saliva or feces. If your dog does not meet other dogs, the risks for infections are minimal. Dogs may also get infected from other smaller animals they chase such as mice or birds. These small animals may also be carriers of viruses.
However, there are a few airborne viruses that cannot be prevented.
Reduce Allergies
Dogs that live indoors are less likely to develop allergies, as they are less exposed to pollens and grasses, which are major sources of allergens.
Minimize Stress
An inside dog is less likely to develop anxiety and stress. A dog that spends all his time indoors will have a stable environment and a well established routine that will make him content.
Avoidance of many Toxic Materials
Dogs that are curious and they chew on different objects, plants foods even on garbage. Dogs may stumble on toxic materials which may be garden plants, rat poison or grasses with fertilizers and poisoning may be fatal.
Prevent Fights
Animal fights can occur with other dogs, raccoons or skunks due to territorial reasons or jealousy. A dog may get severely injured during a fight and may contract rabies.
Keeping your dog indoors will prevent these fights.
Extended Lifespan
Being less exposed to viruses, diseases, parasites and accidents, your dog will live longer. On average, inside dogs live 2 to 4 years longer than dogs that spend time outside also.
If you opt to keep your dog indoors, there will be a few issues to address:
- Elimination; you will need to train your dog to urinate and defecate in a box
- Exercise; depending on their size and energy level, dogs have different exercise needs and you will need to make sure your pet gets plenty of exercise to prevent obesity; opt for interactive indoors activities or a pet treadmill.
Having an inside dog has many benefits both for your dog and you. You will have a cleaner home and will be less likely to get an infection from your dog.