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I just thought that I would share this here. 
I originally wrote it as a Sticky for another forum that I moderate for.
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Whether it's while you're home or while you're away, one of the most important aspects of responsible ownership is proper containment. Lately it seems as though more and more people think that it's "no big deal" if their dog gets loose or is let off-leash in public. When you decide to get a dog you are not only taking on the responsibility of that dogs' life and well-being, but the responsibility of how that dog effects the lives of others as well. A lose dog is likely to get itself into trouble and can also cause trouble for others. A dog at large can destroy others' property, harm or be harmed by people and/or other animals, cause car accidents and so much more. For example, it is estimated that roughly 100,000 cats and dogs are hit (injured or killed) by cars each year in the United States alone. This is just one of the thousands upon thousands of various reasons why owners need to keep their dogs contained.
Besides the fact that a loose dog is at the very least an inconvenience to those in the neighborhood, a loose dog is also at risk of countless different things. Everyday, dogs cause or fall victim to a number of tragic events that could have been easily prevented with proper containment. Similar to needs of proper nutrition, exercise and shelter - our canine companions need to be kept safe and secure in todays' world.
I would say that on average I see at least one person a day carelessly walking their dog in public without a leash. That's one person too many. Over the years I've noticed scores of dogs that get loose regularly, with little to no precautions taken by their owners to prevent it. In my opinion, this is a form of neglect and should be recognized as such. There are a number of ways to ensure that your dog is properly contained, some of which will fit one persons' lifestyle better than another.
The Fenced Yard
By far the most commonly used method of containment among the general public, every yard differs in terms of security. In my opinion, a yard can be a rather inconvenient means of containing your dog (while away) because it can be very difficult to be positive of it's security. The fence should be sturdy and at least 6-8 feet tall, though many recommend it be higher. If you've got an athletic dog that is good at jumping or climbing, a strong arch that points inward at the top of the fence can be installed to keep the dog from getting over. The fence should be securely flush with the ground, for extra security it is recommended to cement the parameter along the fence. Because it can be both difficult and costly to secure properly, a yard is often most suited for use while the owner is home to supervise. However, if secured right, a yard can be very beneficial to both the owner and dog.
The Outdoor Run (aka Kennel)
Generally the same rules that apply to the yard apply to the outdoor run, though because they are usually smaller it takes less effort and materials to ensure it's security. Most start out by creating a cement pad or square parameter, posts for the enclosure are usually sunken into this foundation. Afterward the walls are put up, recommended to be about 6-8 feet high and of a sturdy material. To be positive of the runs' security many enclose or indent the top of the run as well. Just as with a yard, when constructed properly, with the right materials, this is a very effective and safe way of containing ones' dog.
The Crate (aka kennel/taxi)
The crate has become increasingly popular among dog owners, many find that it meets their needs of securing their dog indoors. Crates are most often used while owners are away, though also used in "Crate and Rotate" situations as well as a number of other scenarios. When deciding on a crate to purchase, go on the design and material that is used. Make sure that it is completely safe and secure, as well as big enough for your dog to be comfortable in.
The Tie-Out
There are a few different ways to set up a safe and secure tie-out. One set up involves a stake or axle (from a vehicle) buried or cemented into the ground. A chain is attached with a strong ring and swivel, on the other end is another swivel and (usually) a secure locking clasp to clip onto the dogs' collar. The second most common way to set up a safe and secure tie-out is using a zip-line, meant to give the dog more room. This set up starts with a tight cable that is secured about 6-8 feet above the ground, for example from one tree to another or from fence post to fence post. A chain is secured with a strong metal loop (as with the first set-up) that the cable is run through before being put up. The collar used for a tie-out should be strong, secure and weather proof. It must be tight enough that the dog can not manage to pull or wiggle its' head through, but loose enough that one cam fit at least two fingers between the collar and neck comfortably. When setting up a tie-out it is extremely important to make sure that there is nothing your dog could get tangled around or stuck on, as this can result in serious injury or death. The area in which the chain-spot is in should be fenced to keep other people and animals out. For more information on setting up a tie-out feel free to send me a Private Message.
Because this "article" was written mainly to the containment of Pit Bull type dogs, extreme athleticism and determination should be taken into account when choosing a method of containment. However, it should be clear that proper containment is essential regardless of breed.
Keep in mind that all methods of containment described above must be utilized properly to be effective, safe and humane.
They are tools and a tool is only as good as the person using it.
I originally wrote it as a Sticky for another forum that I moderate for.
Proper Containment
Whether it's while you're home or while you're away, one of the most important aspects of responsible ownership is proper containment. Lately it seems as though more and more people think that it's "no big deal" if their dog gets loose or is let off-leash in public. When you decide to get a dog you are not only taking on the responsibility of that dogs' life and well-being, but the responsibility of how that dog effects the lives of others as well. A lose dog is likely to get itself into trouble and can also cause trouble for others. A dog at large can destroy others' property, harm or be harmed by people and/or other animals, cause car accidents and so much more. For example, it is estimated that roughly 100,000 cats and dogs are hit (injured or killed) by cars each year in the United States alone. This is just one of the thousands upon thousands of various reasons why owners need to keep their dogs contained.
Besides the fact that a loose dog is at the very least an inconvenience to those in the neighborhood, a loose dog is also at risk of countless different things. Everyday, dogs cause or fall victim to a number of tragic events that could have been easily prevented with proper containment. Similar to needs of proper nutrition, exercise and shelter - our canine companions need to be kept safe and secure in todays' world.
I would say that on average I see at least one person a day carelessly walking their dog in public without a leash. That's one person too many. Over the years I've noticed scores of dogs that get loose regularly, with little to no precautions taken by their owners to prevent it. In my opinion, this is a form of neglect and should be recognized as such. There are a number of ways to ensure that your dog is properly contained, some of which will fit one persons' lifestyle better than another.
The Fenced Yard
By far the most commonly used method of containment among the general public, every yard differs in terms of security. In my opinion, a yard can be a rather inconvenient means of containing your dog (while away) because it can be very difficult to be positive of it's security. The fence should be sturdy and at least 6-8 feet tall, though many recommend it be higher. If you've got an athletic dog that is good at jumping or climbing, a strong arch that points inward at the top of the fence can be installed to keep the dog from getting over. The fence should be securely flush with the ground, for extra security it is recommended to cement the parameter along the fence. Because it can be both difficult and costly to secure properly, a yard is often most suited for use while the owner is home to supervise. However, if secured right, a yard can be very beneficial to both the owner and dog.
The Outdoor Run (aka Kennel)
Generally the same rules that apply to the yard apply to the outdoor run, though because they are usually smaller it takes less effort and materials to ensure it's security. Most start out by creating a cement pad or square parameter, posts for the enclosure are usually sunken into this foundation. Afterward the walls are put up, recommended to be about 6-8 feet high and of a sturdy material. To be positive of the runs' security many enclose or indent the top of the run as well. Just as with a yard, when constructed properly, with the right materials, this is a very effective and safe way of containing ones' dog.
The Crate (aka kennel/taxi)
The crate has become increasingly popular among dog owners, many find that it meets their needs of securing their dog indoors. Crates are most often used while owners are away, though also used in "Crate and Rotate" situations as well as a number of other scenarios. When deciding on a crate to purchase, go on the design and material that is used. Make sure that it is completely safe and secure, as well as big enough for your dog to be comfortable in.
The Tie-Out
There are a few different ways to set up a safe and secure tie-out. One set up involves a stake or axle (from a vehicle) buried or cemented into the ground. A chain is attached with a strong ring and swivel, on the other end is another swivel and (usually) a secure locking clasp to clip onto the dogs' collar. The second most common way to set up a safe and secure tie-out is using a zip-line, meant to give the dog more room. This set up starts with a tight cable that is secured about 6-8 feet above the ground, for example from one tree to another or from fence post to fence post. A chain is secured with a strong metal loop (as with the first set-up) that the cable is run through before being put up. The collar used for a tie-out should be strong, secure and weather proof. It must be tight enough that the dog can not manage to pull or wiggle its' head through, but loose enough that one cam fit at least two fingers between the collar and neck comfortably. When setting up a tie-out it is extremely important to make sure that there is nothing your dog could get tangled around or stuck on, as this can result in serious injury or death. The area in which the chain-spot is in should be fenced to keep other people and animals out. For more information on setting up a tie-out feel free to send me a Private Message.
SAFETY FIRST!
Be sure to do regular checking on your set ups to be positive that they are safe and secure.
Look thoroughly for any weather-wear or other kinds of damage.
One of the best ways test out a new set up (to be 100% sure of it's security) is to use it for a substantial period while supervising your dog. That way, your dog will help find any potential flaws your set up may have.
Be sure to do regular checking on your set ups to be positive that they are safe and secure.
Look thoroughly for any weather-wear or other kinds of damage.
One of the best ways test out a new set up (to be 100% sure of it's security) is to use it for a substantial period while supervising your dog. That way, your dog will help find any potential flaws your set up may have.
Because this "article" was written mainly to the containment of Pit Bull type dogs, extreme athleticism and determination should be taken into account when choosing a method of containment. However, it should be clear that proper containment is essential regardless of breed.
Keep in mind that all methods of containment described above must be utilized properly to be effective, safe and humane.
They are tools and a tool is only as good as the person using it.
