I think you're fine without a crate. We got one because being first time dog owners, we were paranoid. Come to think of it, it wasn't necessary. I felt guilty all the time..because he had such a little amount of space for 5 hours during the day. So I started giving him the kitchen...then the house..he was good. The only time he got in trouble was with the phone cords...but i was home so I noticed, told him no and hid them. Anyways, there's no need to crate binx in my opinion...