Right! I mean, Cody LOVES outside, in the spring and summer(xcept when it's stifling hot of course) and fall when it's still light, he'll sit on the porch (dbl long leash around banister but he can move around freely)alone for a short time or with a family member. But it's for a short time. He misses being inside where the action is-doesn't want to miss a thing! There's a difference between deserting the dog ALL DAY and playing outside. Smilla's right, you wouldn't do that to your grandma or kid. My very strong sentiment has been, if you can't enjoy your dog, spend time with it, take responsibility DON'T get a dog!