Achilles waits behind the gate while I work in the front yard.
While I’d like to have him out front with me – he is very unlikely to race off after some attraction – it’s better having him in the back yard. He is an old guy and I prefer having him there. He is safe from the stray or loose dog which might take advantage of his vulnerability while my back is turned or I’m otherwise unable to defend him.
previouslytexan 
And rightly so. He is a very stately gentleman who needs someone to watch his back as he ages
Stately, indeed. While we only occasionally see strays in our neighbourhood I prefer to not chance it.