Environment

Make sure your dog has a suitable place to live

Facts

Living in a cold or wet place can cause a dog to suffer and may lead to illness.
A dog needs regular opportunities to go to the toilet or it will become distressed.
A dog must be able to avoid things that scare it. A dog may suffer if it is unable to hide.
Dogs are intelligent. If a dog is bored, and doesn’t have enough to do, it may suffer.
A dog needs regular opportunities to exercise.
Dogs are inquisitive. A dog may put itself in danger if it is left to explore unsupervised.

Provide your dog with a comfortable, dry, draught-free, clean and quiet place to rest undisturbed.
At least every few hours provide your dog with access to an appropriate place where your dog can go to the toilet.
Provide your dog with access to an appropriate place where it can exercise at least once a day. Read our FAQ on exercising your dog.
Give your dog constant access to a safe hiding place where it can escape if it feels afraid.
Make sure your dog has access to suitable objects to chew and play with.
If dogs live together, you should provide enough extra resources (e.g. toys, beds and hiding places) to stop them from becoming competitive and fighting.
Make sure the size and temperature of any place you leave your dog (including your vehicle) is appropriate.
When you transport your dog, make sure it is comfortable and safe at all times. Read our FAQ on transporting dogs in cars safely.
Make sure that where your dog lives is safe, secure and free from hazards.
Keep your dog under control and do not let it stray.