Indoor Living versus Outdoor Living
The pros for dogs living indoors with the family are a safe, healthier, and happier dog. Dogs are social animals that depend on companionship and thrive in the safe living environment of their pack. They bond with their owner and they are more likely to obey commands. If you are using your Springer for hunting purposes, he/she will do their best in the field to please you. You will be more aware of any health issues that might occur with your dog. Dogs find comfort in familiar surroundings such as dog odors are also a concern if someone in the home has allergies.
Pros for an outdoor dog is from a human perspective, shedding, dog hair and dog odors especially if someone in the home has allergies.
However, there are many cons for a dog living outdoors. Outside dogs have a lack of human contact and are insecure and more anxious. They are less social, due to long periods of isolation. They tend to have behavioral problems, and are more aggressive and territorial of their small area. Outdoor dogs tend to be excessive barkers and are more difficult to train. They can be subject to teasing and taunting, shot or poisoned. They can not defend themselves while being chained and can be injured or killed by other dogs or animals. If they are in an enclosed area, they tend to concentrate on ways to escape, putting them at risk being hit by a vehicle or lost. An outdoor dog tends to be less healthy and sunburn, heatstroke, frostbite, exposure, and dehydration can be a devastating health problem. They are also more likely to catch diseases. Theft can also be issue.
A dog reacts well to living indoors but having an area outdoors, such as a fenced yard for play and napping in the sun. An electronic fence may work well for some breeds, but be aware that a Springer is a hunting dog and his/her hunting instinct may ignore the shock of the electronic fence. Never leave your dog outdoors while you are not at home, they are like a small child and must be supervised. Their actions will surprise you!

