I have a home with an unfenced yard. we do have a runner for our dog when he likes to be outside. We have a quiet street so can do easy walks when needed. We do prefer dogs that are not too hyper as we do have kids. Our dog is crate trained when needed but has free roam in our home so he can come up and get cuddles while watching TV or chill out on his bed. If dogs are not house trained we would prefer a crate. If they are small enough we do have our crate that our dog does not use on a consistent basis. Our dog is super exitable and crazy at first but is loveable and friendly to other dogs and cats.