Is It Safe to Leave a Dog on the Balcony?
Leaving a dog unattended on a balcony can pose some potential dangers that owners should consider carefully before doing so. Some of the main risks include:
- Falling – Dogs may accidentally fall off balconies if unsupervised, especially puppies or small breeds. Balcony railings designed for people can be too short or wide enough for dogs to slip through.
- Getting into things – Curious dogs left alone may get into toxic substances like antifreeze or rat poison if left accessible on the balcony. They may also chew on or ingest houseplants, some of which can be poisonous.
- Escaping – Clever and determined dogs may figure out how to jump the balcony railing and escape if left unsupervised long enough.
- Harm from weather – Dogs left in very hot, sunny weather may overheat, while cold weather can lead to hypothermia and frostbitten paws on snowy balconies.
- Nuisance barking – Unsupervised balcony dogs may bark excessively, leading to noise complaints from neighbors.
While balconies can be safe dog hangouts if properly prepared, owners need to weigh the risks of leaving a dog unattended versus crating them or bringing them inside. Any time on the balcony should involve direct monitoring and supervision. For more tips, see this AKC article on balcony safety preparations.
Consider Your Dog’s Size and Temperament
Larger, more active dogs may be more likely to get into trouble on a balcony. Their size gives them more leverage and ability to jump or climb over a balcony barrier. Active breeds like retrievers and collies may become easily bored or frustrated in a confined outdoor space. Per the AKC, large or excitable dogs are more prone to accidents like knocking over plants or getting limbs stuck between balcony rails1.
Smaller dogs with lower activity levels may do better being left on a balcony for periods of time. Their size makes it harder for them to climb on or over balcony rails. Less energetic companion breeds like Chihuahuas or pugs are less likely to get rowdy being left on a balcony. However, their small stature also makes them more vulnerable to falls or slips through balcony cracks according to experts on Quora2.
Additionally, nervous or anxious dog breeds may become distressed being left alone on a balcony. Separation anxiety prone breeds like Chihuahuas and Vizslas can develop phobias. The outdoor exposure and sounds may overstimulate them. Leaving toys or familiar scents can help ease their stress.
Think About the Weather
Extreme heat or cold can be dangerous for dogs on balconies. According to Kearns, a balcony can get very hot, very fast, even when covered. Leaving a dog exposed to high temperatures on a balcony risks heat stroke, which can be fatal. Similarly, frigid temperatures can lead to hypothermia. Gauge the weather before leaving a dog outside – summer heat waves and winter cold snaps are especially risky. Avoid the balcony altogether when temperatures climb above 85°F or dip below 45°F.
Pay attention to humidity as well since that affects how hot it feels. Provide ample shade and water to help keep your dog cool in warm weather. In winter, provide a warm dog sweater, bedding, and shelter. Know the signs of overheating and chilling so you can intervene if needed. Only leave your dog briefly and check frequently if unsure about the weather conditions.
Ensure the Balcony is Secured
One of the most important things to consider before leaving a dog on a balcony is ensuring the balcony is properly secured. This means having railings or walls that are high enough so the dog cannot jump over them. For small dogs, a railing height of at least 3 feet is usually sufficient. For medium to large breed dogs, the railing should be 5-6 feet high (Source). Railings made of plexiglass or wire mesh can also help deter dogs from trying to jump.
In addition, check for any spaces or gaps along the bottom or sides of the railings where a dog may be able to squeeze through. These gaps should be closed off or blocked. You can use wooden planks, mesh netting, brackets, or other sturdy materials to seal up any problematic gaps (Source). Doing so will prevent escapes and injuries. Proper securing and blocking of spaces on the balcony is crucial for safely containing your dog.
Provide Water and Shade
Dogs left on balconies need access to water and shade from the sun. Without ample water, dogs can quickly become overheated and dehydrated, especially on hot days. Make sure to leave multiple bowls of cool, fresh water that can’t be tipped over. Consider getting no-tip bowls or a water bottle with a bowl attachment.
Provide shade so your dog has relief from the sun. A shaded overhang or canopy can give shade, as can strategic placement of potted plants and trees. You can also install temporary shade solutions like retractable awnings, shade sails, or shade cloth. Portable pop-up tents or shade shelters specifically made for pets are another option. Rotate shade during the day as the sun’s position changes.
Don’t Leave for Too Long
When leaving your dog on the balcony, it’s important not to leave them for extended periods of time. The recommended maximum time to leave a dog alone on a balcony is 2-3 hours. Leaving a dog for longer than this can cause boredom, anxiety, and distress.
According to the ASPCA, dogs should not be left alone for more than 4-6 hours at a time, as this can lead to destructive behavior or barking due to isolation and loneliness. Balconies provide even less stimulation than being left inside, so the maximum time should be reduced compared to being left indoors.
Additionally, dogs left on balconies for long periods have limited access to water, food, and bathroom breaks. Make sure to provide water and take your dog out to relieve themselves before and after any alone time on the balcony. Take into account variables like weather conditions that could make longer durations uncomfortable or dangerous.
If you need to leave your dog for longer than 2-3 hours at a time, it’s best to explore other options like dog walkers, pet sitters, or doggy daycare rather than leaving them outside on the balcony. With reasonable durations and proper preparations, the balcony can be a safe outdoor space for your dog under supervision.
Consider Anti-Barking Measures
Barking on the balcony could disturb neighbors. Excessive barking can lead to noise complaints or even eviction in some cases. There are solutions to help control balcony barking:
Citronella or scent collars can help curb barking by emitting a spray or unpleasant odor when the dog barks. These collars provide a negative stimulus to deter excessive vocalization (https://babelbark.com/how-to-stop-your-dogs-balcony-barking/). However, some dogs may become accustomed or immune to the stimulus over time.
Training the “quiet” command can teach the dog to stop barking on cue. Give a treat immediately when the dog stops barking to reinforce the behavior. Practice this frequently to gain more control over unwanted barking (https://www.preventivevet.com/dogs/how-to-teach-your-dog-to-stop-barking-at-the-window).
Limiting balcony time and bringing the dog inside at the first signs of nuisance barking can also help manage the issue.
Check Local Laws and Regulations
Before leaving your dog unattended on the balcony, be sure to check your local laws and regulations. Some areas may prohibit leaving dogs unattended on balconies. For example, in California there are laws against leaving dogs unattended in precarious situations, which could apply to balconies (https://www.reddit.com/r/Austin/comments/potkah/is_it_illegal_to_keep_a_dog_on_a_small_second/).
If you live in an apartment building, check their pet policies as well. Many apartments do not allow dogs to be left unattended on balconies due to noise and safety concerns. Violating apartment policies could put you at risk of fines or eviction.
Additionally, leaving dogs unattended repeatedly or for extended periods may be considered neglect or cruelty. Animal control or law enforcement could get involved if someone reports a dog left unattended and in distress. To avoid legal risks, supervise your dog closely anytime they are on the balcony.
Best Practices for Balcony Safety
If you plan to leave your dog on the balcony for any period of time, it’s important to take precautions to ensure their safety. Here are some best practices:
- Install non-slip mats or traction tape on slippery surfaces to avoid falls. Dogs may slip on slick balcony floors, especially when wet.
- Remove any poisonous plants from the balcony, as dogs may chew on them. Toxic plants include lilies, azaleas, oleander, and sago palms. Opt for pet-safe plants instead.
- Cover up or remove any loose wiring, which dogs may chew on and get electrocuted. Tuck electrical cords behind furniture or use cord covers.
- Consider installing weatherproof outdoor rugs and dog beds so your pup has a comfortable place to relax.
- Use pet-proof screens on balcony railings and gates. This prevents pets from squeezing through gaps and falling.
- Avoid leaving choking hazards like small balls and toys unattended on the balcony.
- Place water bowls, toys, and chews out to keep your dog occupied.
Taking these simple precautions can go a long way in preventing accidents and injuries. It’s important to properly dog-proof your balcony before letting your furry friend outside.
When to Avoid the Balcony
Extreme weather conditions make balconies unsafe for dogs. Severe heat, cold, rain, snow, wind, and storms can quickly become dangerous or even deadly for dogs left on balconies. According to PETA, dogs should never be left on balconies during extremely hot or cold times of the day. The Dodo also recommends not leaving pets unattended on balconies in bad weather.
In intense summer heat or humidity, balconies can overheat, causing heat stroke in dogs. Temperatures on balconies can rise to extreme highs when in direct sunlight. Dogs are unable to cool themselves as effectively as humans, so heat stroke can set in rapidly. Even in the shade, hot summer weather can be risky for dogs on balconies.
Frigid winter temperatures can also put dogs in danger of hypothermia or frostbite on cold balconies. Bitter winds make these risks even greater during the winter. The cold metal or concrete of most balconies pulls body heat from dogs rapidly.
Thunderstorms with pouring rain, hail, lightning and high winds make balconies treacherous. Slippery surfaces or flying debris can harm dogs. Severe storms can also knock out power, preventing you from opening electric doors or gates to get to your dog on the balcony.
In summary, it’s best to keep dogs safely inside during any extreme weather like severe heat, cold, rain, wind, hail, lightning or storms. Leaving dogs on balconies in dangerous conditions puts them at risk.