Is it really safe to leave my German shepherd mix outside all day or overnight?

[Anonymous]

I have a German shepherd mix, he weighs about 40 pounds and has pretty short fur. He’s about 3 years old. I’ve been told that it’s okay to leave him outside for long periods of time because dogs are meant to be outside. I’m hesitant just because it’s not what I’m used to. He seems to like it being outside for the most part, but I’m scared of what might happen if I leave him out overnight or during the day while I’m at work. What is your opinion on this?

to add: I would leave him out with enough food, water, and shelter (I bought him a dog house). And no, it’s not something I will do all day every day for months on end, he will come inside when I am home.

[permanentem]

Typically temperatures above 85 F are too hot and under 32 F are too cold to keep your dog outside. That said, different dogs react differently. I have a younger dog that is all black that overheats around 78 F and can run around in near freezing weather all day long without issue and an older dog with a light colored coat that gets cold when the temperature is under say 65 F but he deals with heat really well and doesn't even pant until it gets up around 95 F. Either way if your dogs are outside in less than ideal temperatures they have to have a clean water source. Not just a small water bowl (it will run out). For example on one of my water wells on the property I have a little spigot that I let constantly drip a little bit and my dogs use it as a dog water fountain. I wouldn't keep them outside at night though. There way too many animals around and they will inevitably hunt them and likely get sick from eating something nasty or get a blockage from swallowing an animal bones and all whole. I've had my dogs puke up piles up bones like they are a witch doctor before. Weird shit... None the less, turtles, tortoises, frogs, snakes, birds, rabbits, squirrels, rats, raccoons, possums, etc. are all around and they can carry nasty bacteria and viruses which can lead to dogs getting infections, diarrhea, blockages, etc. so it's best to keep them inside at twilight and after dark.

[IndianPhotoAcademy]

Generally speaking, leaving a German Shepherd mix outside all day is not recommended. They are social dogs that require interaction, exercise, and mental stimulation even though they can tolerate some outdoor time. Being by yourself for extended periods of time can cause boredom or behavioral issues. For safety, shelter, water, shade, and weather are also important. Giving them outdoor time while keeping them mostly with the family is a better strategy.

[Anonymous]

I had a friend who’s parents kept their Dalmatian outside all the time, and it turned mean… same with my German Shepard’s pup… we sold it to a neighbor and it was always outside on a chain and became vicious and bit a neighbor’s ear off..

also, German Shepard can jump fences…

I don’t know… all I know is that I wouldn’t leave it outside on the regular.. you say you bring it in when you’re home, that’s good. Just consider the temperature. Maybe a baby pool and shade

[PolarPoint]

I don't think there will be a problem. Dogs prefer being outdoors. That's their natural habitat. :)

[Iron_Man]

Does he have a cover over his head if it rains? does he have plenty of water? I don’t think it’s a good idea to leave Dogs outside for too long, but you cane for a while if you’re leaving town. but you have to make sure he’s got plenty of food

[DryGermanGuy]

Depends on the weather and the area. Is it fenced in? Will he annoy neighbors with barking?

[Asker]

It’s supposed to be a clear day and the high is 80 degrees

[Agape93]

Make sure it has shade and plenty of water. They aren't the best in heat

[Nikki1989]

That would depend on the weather conditions and the behaviour of the dog.

[Mike_Hum]

It depends on where you live and the weather. If you wouldn't sit outside for hours, don't expect the dog to do so.

[Asker]

It’s supposed to be a clear day and the high is 80 degrees

[Agape93]

What's the weather and temperature? Is he fenced in properly? Any predators around?

[Anonymous]

Dogs need a lot of attention and human interaction. They shouldn't be kept outside or left alone for long periods of time.

[Jeff51]

There a tuff dog. A lot of dogs are meant to be outdoors like it used to be ages ago.

[Fireburn2025T2]

During hot days. No way. Would you want to be in the blistery heat all day. Give him some shelter from the ultra violet rays and plenty of water

[Anonymous]

As long as it's not freezing, it is fine

[jahaims]

You shouldn't own a dog if you have to ask