I'm confused too.
Why on earth would you tell the people at the shelter that you kept your dog outdoors, when you specifically knew that they were going to have a problem with it.

While I don't necessarily think that a dog living outdoors is equal to abuse, I just don't understand it. My dogs are members of my family, and they deserve to live inside with the humans.

I like what Twisterdog said (if I may quote you): "If you want something to live in your backyard, plant a tree."