Dog tie outs are an integral part of having a dog.  They keep the dog in place while letting it have a reasonable amount of running space.  Moreover, they keep the dog from attacking people like mail carriers and electric meter readers and all the other people who come to service our homes, while allowing the dog to enjoy the outdoors.  However, the normal dog tie out has a few problems. 

Problem number one is that dog tie outs, particularly those meant for smaller dogs, are fairly easy for the dog to pull up out of the ground.  The normal stake for a dog tie out is only a few inches or possibly a foot in length.  This makes it possible for the dog to loosen the stake with a few lunges, and then take off on its own.  Even the type that screw into the ground will come out if a larger dog decides to pull and lunge at it for an extended period of time. 

The next problem is the traditional chain.  The chain has many problems.  The first is that it tends to “sweep” the area used by the dog clear, while collecting dirt, twigs and leave in the links.  These items promote accelerated rusting of the chain, rendering it unsafe for use.  The next problem with the traditional chain is the weight of the chain itself, which tends to lead to overdeveloped necks in the animals upon which it is being used.  Another problem with the traditional chain used in dog tie outs is that the chain itself will become twisted as a result of being run along the ground, thus shortening the chain and the amount of space the dog has to run in by a considerable basis.  This problem, taken to the extreme, can twist the chain so tightly around the stake used that the dog is in danger of being strangulated.

Using a collar as part of a dog tie out has its own problems, as does NOT using a collar.  Not using a collar can lead to wear on the neck of the dog, resulting in bald spots and sores and is a sign of neglect according to officials.  Using a collar means that the collar needs to be checked on a regular basis for signs that the collar is too snug, too loose, or starting to wear.  The ring that is used to attach the chain to the collar also needs to be checked for signs of wear, or signs that it is coming off the collar.