We use this gate to create a barrier across a wide doorway between our mudroom and a hallway leading to rest of the house. If a large dog really wants to get out of this gate, it can do so easily. We have a Mastiff and 2 Newfoundlands who could almost step over it, but they respect the boundary. It keeps their wet feet contained in the mud room until they dry. Even though they CAN get over it, we make sure to swing a panel open to let them walk through when we want them to come through. I like the ease of operation the hinged panels offer for that purpose. The product is sturdy, nicely finished and well built.