04/01/2026
One of our most frequently asked questions on messenger over the last two months has been regarding the suitability of indoor versus outdoor environments for large dogs, specifically:
“How do I know if my dog should be indoor or out?”
Here’s our best answer!
Is your dog suited for outdoor:
Thick double coats (Husky, Great Pyrenees, shepherds)
Bred for working/guarding outside
Handle cold well!
Is your dog suited for indoor living:
Short/thin coats (Pit Bull, Doberman, Boxer)
Sensitive to heat/cold
Companion-type breeds!
Now here in Texas you have to take the heat into consideration!
Any temp over 90 degrees you have the risk of overheating. Plus pavement heat which can damage paws.
Another thing to consider, does your dog want to be inside! Are they doing any of the following:
Scratching at doors/windows
Whining or pacing outside
Laying by the door to come in
Signs of stress or boredom.
Are they okay with outdoor time? Are they doing any of the following:
Relaxed body language outside
Enjoying shade, patrolling, or lounging
Not constantly trying to come in.
Now remember dogs are pack animals they want your attention and they want to be near you!
Long term isolation and/or keeping your dog chained to a tree all hours of the day, can lead to anxiety and aggression! This is not the dogs fault!
A lot of people assume:
“Big dog = outdoor dog”
That’s not really true. Most large dogs actually thrive indoors with structure and exercise, not left outside full-time.
Simple rule of thumb:
If your dog is part of your life, they should spend most of their time where you are…….inside.