I am not a fan of tethering a dog outside for the majority of the day, for many reasons. But *some* people have a safer setup for it than others. Tethering is more about having the dog understand the tether (ie, not hitting the end of it when they see something they like). I've known dogs who strangled themselves. I've known dogs who do well enough on it. I've known dogs who are always hitting the end and getting jerked back. Harnesses are better for taking pressure off the neck, but I know dogs who chew through harnesses when unattended. Ziplines may be a better option for some dogs.
Bottom line is, there is no one safe way and it largely depends on the dog. I would always recommend keeping a dog indoors when possible, having a securely fenced yard, or having a secure outdoor kennel, above tying a dog out.
Bottom line is, there is no one safe way and it largely depends on the dog. I would always recommend keeping a dog indoors when possible, having a securely fenced yard, or having a secure outdoor kennel, above tying a dog out.