Cat owner who needs some information on dog welfare

[MistressMia]

I need some information on dogs and know absolutely nothing about them hence my post.

My neighbours moved in the summer and they have 2 dogs.

Most of the day & the night, both or at least one of the dogs seem to be outside whimpering, whining or barking.

I've never seen them be taken for walks or anybody ever talking or playing with them.

I can't actually see the dogs as they're over the fence, but tomorrow I'm going to have a walk round on some pretence or other to check on them.

What should I be looking for ?

It may be that they are guard dogs. Is it ok for them to be out so much & chained up the majority of the time ? What should I be looking for in terms of shelter requirements etc. I assume they'll have a kennel but how do I tell a good one from bad.

My cats are somewhat pampered, so I don't want to use their creature comforts as a barometer for how all pets are treated, particularly if may be these are working dogs. BTW neighbour is not a farmer or anything. This is just a normal housing estate.

[FushandChups]

I would try posting this on the dog board (think it's called In the DogHouse or similar)... Under the Pets heading on the main talk page.

Although am sure there will be some knowledgeable dog owners on here too

[MistressMia]

Oh I thought there would be some posters who would be dual dog and cat slaves.

Will post in the dog section if no replies.

[fenneltea]

I have dogs as well as cats, my dogs live in the house however.

As far as keeping dogs outside, they need access to a dry shelter with adequate space and comfortable bedding for warmth. They should also have permanent access to water and be cleaned out several times a day if they are locked in the kennel or the garden/yard cleaned if they are wandering about. They need to be fed at least once a day, preferably twice and given plenty of exercise as well as mental stimulation in the form of training, play and plenty of toys. Long coated breeds will probably also need regular grooming. Companionship is important to most dogs.

Unfortunately many dogs aren't kept in ideal conditions, sometimes through ignorance and sometimes through willful neglect. If you still have concerns after seeing them then do contact one of the rescue agencies, better a check than to be left in need.

[isseywithcats]

you will probably get more dog orientated advice on the doghouse in here as there are some real experts on dogs who work in welfare on there i have a dog but wouldnt be able to advice on up to date welfare laws just that the welfare act says no animal should be subjected to pain, abuse, lack of food or shelter

[MistressMia]

Ok thanks all, will post in the dog section and monitor the situation.

Can't hear them at the moment so maybe I am worrying unnecessarily but will go and have a snoop anyway.