We just bought our first home on a half acre lot along the Cedar river with a dog’s dream yard perfect for me to play fetch with your dogs in! ** Please note that I have not had a fence fully installed yet. The only way your dog would escape is if he/she jumped into the river! Otherwise, we have two very tall fences on both sides and a private gate and driveway in the front. Please reference some of my photos and you can see some of the backyard. If your dog is smaller, I will not let them outside without my full attention on them as a safety precaution. I have never seen a gator in the two months that we have lived here, but I am still in the process of having a fence installed for my own dog’s safety. My dog is spoiled and sleeps in bed with me every night so if your dog prefers to sleep in bed that is totally fine. I can also crate if that is what you prefer. **I do only accept fully house trained dogs as I am trying to keep our new home as clean and nice as possible!