In my opinion, the media putting fear into people over isolated incidents is exactly why we don't see many kids playing outside anymore. I live in a nice neighborhood full of kids and don't see many outside. They are all stuck on the couch in the A/C playing their video games. I encourage my kids to ride their bikes, go to freinds houses, take the dog for a walk. I take them fishing and camping every chance I get, always bringing the dog along.
Our GSD is a house dog. He goes out a few times a day, 10 or 15 minutes a day in the back yard. He likes to go out when we go out, but prefers to be in the house with us if we are in. He is a house dog by our choice. We have someone at home all the time and have never had to make a decision to put him half the day.
I do not have a problem and am not going to pass judgement on someone that wants to leave their animal outside half of the day. I see no problem with it at all as long as protective measures are taken. If it is a safe and secure environment, such as a securely fenced in back yard, I think it is more humane than leaving them crated up all day long. No, I would not let my toddler roam free in the backyard all day, but let's get real. Dogs are not humans, they are dogs and are made for outside conditions. I would not lock my toddler in a crate all day either. Just my opinion
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