I need some opinions on letting dogs live indoors vs. out in the backyard?

My mother has but one stipulation: I am only allowed to adopt two strays that my friend's mother found if they are not allowed in the house. They're both small dogs, one 2 1/2 years old (Lhasa Apso) and one 7 weeks old (Lhasa Apso mix). Should I accept my mother's conditions?