Dogs on training rides

[Heidi Sowards <ribbitttreefrog@yahoo.com>]

I have a 2 1/2 yr. old collie that goes on my rides with
me. Last summer I felt he was still developing too much to
do rides over 5 miles, and his feet would hurt for a bit
the next day. (Although once in a while we stretched that a
bit.) Right now he is going on 6-8 mile rides. There is
water available right now (puddles/creeks) but my question
is, what is too much for him? Would 15-20 miles be too much
later on? He is about 70 lbs., of course pretty hairy, in
really good shape, no fat, etc. He does really well, but I
don't want to overdo anything. He LOVES to go with me,
whines and barks the minute he sees me put on my riding
shoes. Arthritis later on is a concern as well. Any input
please....

Heidi (and Rham the trail-Lassie)
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