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Traits suitable for the outdoors<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
When you\u2019re looking for the perfect outdoor companion, there are many characteristics to consider. The ideal hunting dog may have traits that make it a poor choice for a fishing companion. For the purposes of this study, we\u2019ve evaluated dog breeds on characteristics and abilities specific to several common outdoor activities, including hunting, fishing, hiking, and camping. Traits are rated on a scale from one to five stars, with five stars being the optimal rating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Athleticism<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
When we considered a dog\u2019s athleticism, we looked at its endurance, ability to carry loads, and its energy level.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Agility<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Agility consists of surefootedness and the ability to surmount obstacles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Obedience<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Obedience can be challenging to quantify. For our purposes, we have considered a dog’s trainability, intelligence, and the potential for wanderlust to evaluate obedience level. Some of the traits that make a dog excellent at hunting, such as single-mindedness, can also be detrimental to the dog\u2019s safety. Several of the breeds on this list are not suitable for novice handlers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Swimming ability<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
While many dogs can swim, some are made to be in the water. The highest scores were assigned to breeds that have a known affinity for swimming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hunting ability<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Some canines have an instinctive drive to hunt specific types of animals, or they have an inborn capacity to retrieve or point.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hardiness<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Some dogs do best at temperature extremes, while others have a general resistance to cold and ability to function in heat. The highest ratings will be for all-weather dogs. If a breed has special adaptations for an extreme, those will be noted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n