 Although dogs resemble wild canids in many ways, keep in mind that they are domesticated animals with very different needs than those of their wild counterparts. One of the outstanding characteristics of most dogs, particularly when they are young, is their adaptability. Some dogs have a greater need for activity than others, but no dog has an innate need to run free. If you let your dog run free while young, he or she will adapt to and expect this condition, but if you restrict roaming, he or she will adapt as readily to this situation. Most dogs' needs for activity can be met by taking them for short walks two or three times a day, through goal-directed play periods such as ball chasing, obedience lessons, or free access to an enclosed yard with a companion--you, another dog, or a cat. City dogs should never be allowed to run the streets unsupervised. Not only do most cities have laws prohibiting this, but roaming city dogs are among those who are injured or become ill most often. They are exposed to communicable diseases as they make their territorial rounds; they are hit by cars; they are poisoned; they get in dog fights much more often than dogs accompanied by their owners. You are doing a city dog a great disservice if you allow unsupervised roaming. If you live in a rural area away from automobile traffic, it may be safe to let your dog loose. However, if you live where there is livestock, be careful. Many dogs have been shot by disgruntled livestock owners. In other cases they have been poisoned by bait left out for wild predators. If you have cars in and out of your driveway all of the time, be careful also.....plenty of dogs are run over by friends and family members in their own driveway. The best thing is......Do not let your dogs roam free.  Site Index
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