Whether your dog is used to being inside or outside, the important thing is that they have what they need at all times. Dogs love being outside. They like to be able to run and play without being restrained or held back. The basic needs of any pet are a solid shelter where they can go if it rains, dishes for both water and food, plenty of safe toys to occupy their time and ample space to run and play.
Sturdy Dog House
It is important to provide your dog with a clean, dry dog house that is sturdy enough to withstand both wind and rain. Provide your pet with bedding that is both comfortable and warm. Some dogs prefer straw or fiber bedding, while others may be more comfortable with an old blanket. Occasionally you may find a pet that prefers to have no bedding at all. It is always a good idea to offer it, in any case. Dog houses come in many shapes and sizes. Solid dog houses are now being made in the shape of an igloo to better hold heat and provide less chance of rain leaking in through unsealed cracks in the roof or sides.
Heavy Dishes
Dogs get excited when they eat and can sometimes upset their food and water dishes. Buy weighted dishes if possible, to prevent your pet from spilling their water or wasting their food. Dishes are made from heavy plastic, metal or ceramic and can be purchased at any pet or department store. Heavier dishes will also prevent the dog from trying to chew them up. Dogs are notorious for chewing dishes that are made of plastic. If smaller pieces break off, it is easy for them to ingest. Once it is in their system, the sharp edges can cut or perforate the stomach and intestines causing bleeding and infection.
Eco-Friendly Toys
Dogs can get bored just like people. Providing them with plenty of toys will help keep them occupied when you are not around to spend time with them. Cloth rope toys, rawhide chews, tennis ball ans frisbees are good choices. Avoid soft plastic toys with squeakers or stuffed animals that have small parts. Soft rubber is easily chewed apart. Small parts like squeakers and plastic pieces off of stuffed animals can be easily swallowed, harming the digestive system and leading to other health issues.
Enclosed Kennel or Dog Run
An enclosed kennel or dog run will provide your dog a large area to run and play in without having to worry about being restrained or held on a leash. They can relieve themselves at their leisure and play in the grass like dogs are prone to do. If you don't want to worry about constantly mowing and trimming in an enclosed area, you can convert the natural grass to artificial turf. This will cut down the time spent maintaining the area considerably. The only maintenance that will have to be performed on a regular basis is removing the dog's daily deposits and gently hosing down the area every other day or so to rinse away any residue from urine or fecal matter. Your dog will be able to play and roll on the artificial turf, just as they would on natural grass.
Protecting your pet while they are outside of the home is important. You need to provide them with all of the things they need to stay occupied while you are away. While nothing will replace your company, offering them toys and a secure way to keep them fed and watered will help them to keep their minds off of your absence.
