I think it depends on the dog. I have a 8 month old Golden Retriever that I would not leave out because she has proven that she can't be trusted (steals things and chews them up).
My parents have an 8 year old beagle, who proved the other day she still can't be trusted outside of her crate when no one is around by jumping up on the chair and stealing birthday cake when everyone was outside saying goodbye to the guests. So it just depends on your dog. I would do like the others suggest and give a little freedom at a time. Good luck.