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They have a greatly expanded lifespan as a result and companionship, as well as food and access to medical services. Depending on the owner they have a far higher quality of life and in some instances complete freedom but not independence for food or decisions. It's more like a benevolent god / subject situation - but it's not that either, you're not god.

Ever seen a "free dog"?

Ever seen a "free dog"? I've had a few that broke my heart. Freedom can be particularly cruel, they are basically the homeless without the intelligence - or insanity for that matter.

richwicks says

They have a greatly expanded lifespan as a result and companionship, as well as food and access to medical services. Depending on the owner they have a far higher quality of life and in some instances complete freedom but not independence for food or decisions. It's more like a benevolent god / subject situation - but it's not that either, you're not god.

Personally, I would prefer a couple of years of freedom over decades in a cage, no matter how good the food and medical care.

But that's just my personal choice.

richwicks says

Ever seen a "free dog"? I've had a few that broke my heart. Freedom can be particularly cruel, they are basically the homeless without the intelligence - or insanity for that matter.

It depends. Some feral dogs adapt pretty good, especially if they form a pack.

you are in a cage.

richwicks says

you are in a cage.

Aren't we all. Most people's cages are of their own creation.

Last dog my parents took in they found wandering in their backyard (which was extensive) starving. That dog was very grateful to receive food and a safe place to sleep.

My current dog would probably be like that if lost. My previous one would fucking terrorize and/or devour all wildlife in 10 miles radius. =))

We're all born in a cage, you know this but you want it not to be true. We are under the thumb of a natural hierarchy called "civilization".