If you hadn't said conscientious I would think you were talking about me... And it wasn't ever clear who was leading.Oman wrote:Ha. Time for the annual dog-in-a-dicey-spot mudfest.
Several very conscientious hikers on this forum have successfully led their dogs up Class 3 and 4 routes. ....
One thing that is critical is to have your dogs paws toughened up. Three or four mile runs on hot asphalt or concrete a couple of times a week works for my dogs. Make sure the dog is in shape. Also, I don't take my dogs on class 3 or 4 fourteeners on account of the crowds at the summit. I left them at a saddle below Snowmass due to a crowd even though they really wanted to follow me. I wouldn't take a dog up Pyramid or the Bells, but I've taken dogs up Castle with no problems.
I carry a leash but would never leash a dog on class 3 or 4.