There are a lot of people who are fanatics about not having dog or cat hair and mess in their homes. I have to wonder why in the world someone would bother to get a dog if they are going to chain them to a tree. Someone finally stole a cocker spaniel down the street from me that stayed tied to a tree 100% of the time. I have to admit, I was delighted!
My dogs are only indoors when we are at home. They are still quite mischievious, so I can't trust them when I'm not here. On very rare occasions (like storms), I may choose to leave them indoors when I am not here. They love to lie in the sunshine and run laps around the yard, but I can't imagine having them and not enjoying them inside. Yes, I have to vacuum and sweep more often, but I love having them around me. That's my two cents worth. By the way, Karen, I'd have a hard time seeing that dog chained up everyday. Doesn't it just kill you to see him?