Well I have tryed both ways with a dog and to be honest the dog that had a ratch about was always better, IMHO they end up a much more intelligent and well adjusted animal.
It makes no difference to them lamping if they are out on the beam often enough.
I am very impressed with the amount of time and effort everyone puts in, you all seem to be doing 5 or 6 miles which takes time on a bike and all evening on foot (especially if your out on fields)......I wish I had as much time but alas, I dont.
My poor f****r will have to content himself with and hour or so on the lamp or a couple of mil