We live out in the country as well with 17achers,, and let our dogs roam free. i was only 9 years old when my dog Tasha was hit by car. we too,, learned the hard way.

after that my parents decised it was time to put up a fence.....

now even with a fence i do not let my dog out alone. either i take him outside,, or my dad or brother does. you never know if they have the bright idea about digging out.