I think it depends on each dog and you have to build up. I always carry water for my dog unless I am walking somewhere (park) where I know it's accessible. My little guy and I used to walk or hike 3 miles several times per week up until he turned 14 and got pretty blind. He would out walk the golden retriever and a shi-tzu my friends had…the Shi Tzu had to be picked up after a mile. In the last year he still waked about 1/2 mile twice a day. He always looked forward to it…I took him early, avoided other dogs and carried a 9 iron just in case (I'm a golfer) and if you have to keep something arm's length from your dog a 9 iron works pretty darn good. Never had to use it but I'd have been ready if I need to. I swear it is what kept him so agile and strong. |