I live in a very small house, and though I have a back yard, my dogs are only in it 10 minutes in the morning, and 10 minutes before bed. Belgians are a very high energy breed and very work-oriented dogs. But my dogs recieve alot of exercise away from home, so they are perfectly happy when they are at home and not spending time in the yard. I think I have more issues with the small house than they do lol.