We've just started letting Kodiak off leash a bit when we're out at my parents where there's alot more room to roam. He's done very well so far, and typically doesnt get much more than 50 yards or so away, and if he's got a buddy playing with him he's usually right along with the other dog. The only think i'm not totally sure of is if he caught sight of a squirrel, he's like holding back a bear when he's on leash and see's one, i'm not realy sure how he'd respond if he had free reign to chase them around, i'm sure he'd chase them up a tree and try to climb up after them!