I am home full time and do not allow the dogs outside alone. I encourage play and running around to tire them out by having fun with their friends. We improvised a fence to cross the driveway so the backyard is "fenced in" and they are watched closely so the likelihood of them getting loose is slim. We have an 80 lb boxer hound mix whom is the gentlest soul imaginable and a French Bulldog currently. We had an English Mastiff that we had from a puppy and she lived to be 12. We love our furry kids and treat them like family. They are given Grain, Soy and Corn free treats and I follow all instructions as provided by you for your special kids.