My yard is not fenced all the way around. It would be great to let them run free in the back yard but I feel like a person can still be a good pet owner without a fence. I know my kids have to have a fenced in yard for their crew. My Granddogs thrive on their fence play sessions. Those dogs have so much energy, they need extra fence time in addition to their walkies. Plus, they love to overlook the neighborhood for predators