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Chaining a Dog
Chaining refers to the act of binding your dog to a stationary object, usually in the back-garden or verandah, as a means of keeping the animal under control. Dogs are social animals, and when you isolate them, they don't recognize the owner’s family as it’s family.
Why people chain their dogs outside:
- Many people believe that dogs are meant to live outside as guards.
- They keep the dog tied up because perhaps it digs the garden and dirties it.
- Maybe the dog has grown too large to be kept inside.
- It has developed a behaviour problem which the owner is unable to take care of, so tie it and control it.
- The owner does not have time for the animal; keeps it chained outside so that the animal does not dirty the house.
Why is chaining dangerous to dogs?
- Chained dogs are nearly three times more likely to bite humans. Often, it is their owners who become victims. They develop a kind of psychosis that comes with protecting their little piece of space they have, and that's when aggression steps in.
- If a dog is chained, it’s escape option is gone The only option, when it feels threatened is to fight, whether it is another animal, an adult or a child.
- Chained dogs become chronic barkers and cause a lot of disturbance to neighbours and family members.
- They can become entangled in their tethers and suffer leg, neck injuries and even strangulation. At times, the chains become totally embedded in their necks,
- Chained dogs exhibit severe behavioural problems; such as aggression, hyperactivity, excessive barking, excessive digging and even self-mutilation.
- In addition, chained dogs suffer from stress, boredom, and loneliness due to their confinement.
- They are more likely to be the dogs that run off on getting the slightest chance, and don’t come back when called.
How are chained dogs dangerous to humans?
- Dogs tethered for long periods tend to become highly aggressive. They start feeling possessive and protective of their territory; when confronted with a perceived threat/intruder, they respond as per their fight instinct.
- A chained dog which finally does get loose from its bondage chains might remain aggressive, and is likely to chase and attack unsuspecting passersby and animals.
Is chaining unavoidable? If so, what are the other options?
- Animals who must be kept on a chain should be secured in such a way that the chain does not become entangled with other objects, nor does the dog get strangulated.
- If collars are to be used it should be comfortable and properly fitted. Do not use iron chains directly on the neck. Restraints should allow the animal to move about and lie down comfortably.
- Remember to keep you poodle unchained during natural disasters such as floods, fires, storms, or blizzards.
- Spay or neuter your dog if you haven't done so. A neutered dog is less likely to roam and is more content to stay at home.
- Modify your backyard to give your dog a lively environment to play and live. Keep clean, fresh water at all times. A variety of toys should be provided to keep the dog engrossed. A good option of toys is a large ball, Nylabones and hard, rubber chew toys. Keep changing toys to relieve boredom.
Your dog is a member of your family. Do not make the mistake of limiting its life to a little circle.