I am interested in knowing just what is expected when hiking with the dog... I know there are places that I can not bring him, but is it really "that" much harder to do a Thru-hike with a dog? Are there many areas on the trail where you will have to carry the dog or areas where he could not get by? I have a boxer/pitbull mix - both breeds are in the top 10 "best dogs for hiking"... so I am really not worried if he can make it due to ability but rather the trail. Thanks for the help!!! :-)