get a big dogloo for outside or big inside crate?

[klausy]

Romeo is 10wks old. We bought a huge dogloo for him to use while outside however, now that I've read your posts it seems much safer to essentially keep him inside. Even when he's grown and mature, most say it is simply much more safe to keep him inside for fear of poisoning, theft, self inflicted wounds due to dangers, and taunting etc... So if it IS safer to keep him inside during the day while we're at work would the better investment be a big crate rather than a big dogloo?? (asuming he's a yr or older) or both?

[Michael C.]

I would definately go with the crate. A doggie igloo would be nice for shelter if the dog is outside, but a crate is priceless. You will have piece of mind knowing your dog is safe while you are at work.

[Teena]

I also second the crate. I bought a LARGE metal one. Axel is fine with it & i do have peace of mind while i'm gone.
Teena

[AngelBunny]

klausy:

Go with the crate. You should take the longterm view of everything you do with your dog. If you get a crate and crate train your dog, you can take Fido anywhere, worry free.

For instance, my partner's mom is quite elderly and she lives in a "just so" house filled with many delicate items. She likes our dogs & their manners are very good, but we always take the crates. The dogs are perfectly happy to be crated in her house & Leibe has no reason to be worried or concerned about having such big dogs in her house.

[Sampson's Mom]

I would go with the crate. As others have said, leaving a dog outside and unattended can be very dangerous. You never know what they will find to get into or what someone will do to them. Since Rotts are family oriented dogs an inside crate is the best idea. We keep Sampson's in our room and that is where he sleeps and goes for some peace and quiet away from the kids. He likes having his own space. As others have siad, it's also a great way to contain them during the puppy years. We also use it when some of our elderly relatives visit. Sampson loves to be around people but he is a little too clumsy to be trusted around them. I'm afraid he would knock them over by accident. With the crate he is still inside and can see everyone without risking an accidental bumping.