Is It Safe to Leave Your Dog on the Patio?
Many dog owners face the decision of whether to leave their furry companion outside on the patio for a period of time. You may need to step away to run errands, go to work, or just get some quiet time. But is it safe to leave your dog unattended on the patio?
This article examines the risks and realities of leaving your dog on the patio. We’ll look at legal considerations, dangers to your dog’s health and safety, how long is too long, and tips to minimize risk if you do opt to leave your dog outside. By the end, you’ll know if it’s advisable to leave your dog on the patio and for how long.
Is It Legal?
The legality of leaving a dog unattended on a patio or outside largely depends on local laws and ordinances, which vary significantly by location. In many areas, it is legal to leave a dog outside for reasonable periods, as long as the dog has adequate shelter, water, and the area is safe and enclosed.
For example, in California it’s legal to leave a dog outside as long as the dog has access to water and shelter that protects them from extreme hot or cold weather (https://www.animallaw.info/statute/ca-cruelty-consolidated-cruelty-statutes#s597t). Some cities like Phoenix, AZ specifically prohibit tethering or chaining up a dog outside and leaving it unattended for more than 9 hours in a 24 hour period (https://www.phoenix.gov/lawsite/Documents/065052.pdf).
Many municipalities have noise ordinances or public nuisance laws that forbid barking dogs left outside for long periods of time. There may also be breed-specific legislation that restricts certain breeds from being unattended outdoors. It’s important to check your local area’s laws and ordinances to understand if and how long dogs can legally be left outside alone.
Risks and Dangers
Leaving a dog unattended on the patio can expose them to numerous risks and dangers. Some of the main concerns include:
Weather Hazards
Dogs left outdoors in hot or cold weather can suffer from life-threatening conditions like heatstroke or hypothermia. Even moderate temperatures can cause dehydration. According to Animal Behavior College, temperatures as low as 50°F can be dangerous for some dogs.
Other Animals
Coyotes, stray dogs, and other wild animals can injure or kill an unattended pet. Fences may not fully protect against all threats. There have been reports of coyotes jumping fences and small dogs being taken by birds of prey.
Theft
Leaving a dog unattended makes them vulnerable to theft. Even with a fenced yard, a determined thief could cut wire or climb over to steal a dog.
Boredom and Stress
Without mental stimulation and human companionship, dogs left alone can become distressed. They may bark excessively, run laps, or engage in destructive behaviors due to boredom and anxiety.
Amount of Time
When deciding how long your dog can stay outside on the patio, experts recommend limiting it to no more than 30-60 minutes at a time. Leaving dogs outside for longer periods increases the risks and dangers to their health and safety.
According to the AKC, small dogs should only spend a few hours outside when temperatures are between 60-90 degrees Fahrenheit. In temperatures below 32 degrees or above 90 degrees, outdoor time should be limited to short spans to prevent hypothermia or heat stroke.
The risks go up exponentially the longer dogs are left outside unattended on the patio. Animal Behavior College experts warn to never leave dogs outside alone for more than 5-10 minutes at a time.
While it may seem convenient to leave dogs outside for long stretches, it is best to limit patio time to less than an hour. Prolonged time outdoors unattended increases boredom and stress and can lead to unwanted behaviors. If longer durations are needed, experts recommend staying outside with your dog.
Tips to Minimize Risk
If you do need to keep your dog outside for periods of time, there are some steps you can take to minimize risks and keep your dog as safe and comfortable as possible:
Provide proper shelter. Your dog should have access to a dry, insulated dog house or shelter large enough for them to stand up, lie down, and turn around comfortably. The shelter should protect them from wind, rain, snow, cold, and heat (Source).
Ensure access to shade. Dogs can overheat easily, so make sure there is ample shade to protect them from direct sunlight during hot days. You may need shade cloth, a tarp, or a shady tree (Source).
Provide fresh water at all times in a tip-proof bowl. Check and replenish frequently.
Have proper ID. An ID tag and microchip can help identify your dog if they ever get lost.
Leave favorite toys for stimulation. Rotate different toys to prevent boredom.
Check on them frequently. Don’t leave them outside for long periods without supervision.
Alternatives
There are several alternatives to leaving your dog alone on the patio for extended periods of time that can help keep them safe, stimulated, and cared for:
Doggy daycare is an excellent option that provides socialization, exercise, and supervision for your dog while you are away. Reputable daycares have staff experienced in canine behavior and enrichment. Your dog gets to play with other dogs and enjoy various activities tailored to their personality and energy level [1].
Hiring a dog walker is another alternative to break up your dog’s time alone. A daily mid-day walk provides a potty break, exercise, and mental stimulation. Walkers can also provide companionship and affection. Apps like Wag and Rover connect you with experienced dog walkers in your area.
Setting up an indoor pet camera allows you to monitor your dog remotely while you are away. Look for cameras with two-way audio so you can talk to your pooch. High quality cameras even dispense treats! This way you can check on your dog and ensure they are not showing signs of distress.
Finally, bringing your dog indoors is safer than leaving them unattended outside. Indoors provides climate control and removes environmental risks. Prepare an indoor space with comfy bedding, water, toys, and pee pads if needed. Consider crate training to give your dog a secure den space while you are gone.
Special Considerations
There are certain situations where leaving a dog outside poses heightened risks that require special attention. These include:
Extreme weather: Dogs should not be left out in extreme heat or cold. According to the AKC, dogs should not be left outside when temperatures rise above 90F or drop below 32F. Exposure can lead to heat stroke or hypothermia. Consider breeds as well – short haired dogs fare worse in cold weather.
Puppies: Young puppies should not be left unattended outside for any extended period of time. Their small size makes them vulnerable to temperature fluctuations and they require closer supervision.
Elderly dogs: Senior dogs often have health issues that require monitoring. Leaving them outside unattended for long periods can be dangerous if a medical episode occurs.
Dogs with anxiety: Dogs that experience separation anxiety or react negatively when left alone are at risk for self-harm if confined outdoors alone. They require companionship and should be kept indoors.
Signs of Distress
Dogs with separation anxiety often exhibit signs of distress when left alone, such as:
– Barking: Dogs may bark excessively when separated from their owner. The barking results from stress and anxiety about being left alone.[1]
– Pacing: Dogs may pace around the home looking for their owner. Pacing demonstrates anxiety, inability to settle, and frustration.[2]
– Whining: Whining is a common symptom of separation anxiety in dogs. The whines express stress and longing for the owner’s return.[1]
– Destructive behavior: Dogs may engage in destructive acts like chewing, digging, urinating, defecating, and tearing things up when experiencing separation distress.[2]
– Escaping: Dogs may try to escape the confined area to reunite with their owner. This can include digging under fences, squeezing through small spaces, or jumping over fences.[1]
[1] https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/common-dog-behavior-issues/separation-anxiety
[2] https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/behaviour/separationrelatedbehaviour
When to Call the Vet
There are some situations where you should call the veterinarian if you have left your dog outside alone, including:
Heatstroke – Dogs are especially susceptible to heatstroke when left unattended outdoors in hot weather. According to the ASPCA, early signs of heatstroke include heavy panting, glazed eyes, rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, excessive thirst, lethargy, fever, dizziness, lack of coordination, profuse salivation, vomiting, a deep red or purple tongue, seizure, and unconsciousness. Heatstroke can become life-threatening very quickly so you should call the vet immediately if you suspect it [1].
Injuries from escape attempts – Dogs left alone outside may try to escape due to boredom, anxiety, or fear. This can lead to injuries like scraped paws, cuts, embedded collars, hit by car, etc. Call the vet if your dog has visible wounds or is showing signs of pain or discomfort after an escape attempt.
Severe anxiety – Some dogs develop severe separation anxiety when left alone outside. Signs can include nonstop barking, howling, pacing, drooling, destructive behavior, and escaping. If your dog exhibits multiple signs of extreme stress that persists even after you’ve returned, it’s a good idea to call the vet to discuss anti-anxiety medication or behavioral modification training [2].
Conclusion
In closing, leaving dogs unattended on the patio for extended periods carries risks that pet owners should seriously consider. While legally you may be able to do it, dogs left alone outside can face dangers from weather, pests, predators, and injury. They may also experience distress from isolation. There are usually better alternatives, like bringing your dog inside, having someone watch them, or using a safe enclosure. If you do leave your dog on the patio, take steps to minimize risks and check on them frequently. Pay close attention for any signs of danger or distress. Use your best judgment and err on the side of caution – your dog’s wellbeing should be the top priority.