I have a small fenced yard between my house and garage. I can allow the dog to come and go once I know it's comfortable. In front of my house is a creek and park and concrete paths going miles both east and west along the creek. I like to walk a couple times a day and try for at least an hour a day. I crate trained my puppy but left it open mostly after initial training as she knew it was her place. We did training and exercise everyday for around an hour and as she grew I was able to have her come sit next to me by tapping my leg or calling her, including let her run for miles in the country and she always came because we trusted each other. I didn't originally let her sit on furniture and never beg at table, though as she was older I let her on the couch and the end of the bed. I took her on trips for work and hiking and other adventures. I was always able to leave her bowl out with food and she'd eat when she wanted. I will follow whatever the pet owner lays out. I believe pets that have a routine need that when the owner is away and will respect it whether strict or not.