>>187792This is true at times, but that's only if you start your dog on a trail like that. My dog, the lab, started out just going on brief day hikes with me. Gradually over time, she developed enough stamina and strength to go on multiple day hikes with me, and in fact at times I'm the one trying to get her to slow down. And I agree with this /out/doorsman
>>187808 it very much depends on the breed. Some adapt better to going through the woods, some prefer grass to rocks, some prefer hot to cold. You just have to know your dogs limits like you know your own, and once you have a grasp on that, you and your dog can have a wonderful adventure.
As for making them carry their own packs, this also depends on the breed and how much you put in the pack, as some dogs can easily go the distance, but are not built to carry heavy packs, and others have little stamina yet can literally tow small vehicles. It all rests on the owner to be smart and makes sure that whatever you do with the dog, you train them leading up to it, just like you would train yourself.
