Like most topics/threads there are variables. If we are talking about a dog walking at the heel position one would have to be a Kenyan marathoner to get a dog into shape. Take the same dog and he pulls his companion down the path, to the point the walker can lean back, those are two totally different dogs doing basically the same thing. Hand walking while pulling/dragging a weight that is 20-25-30 percent of his body weight and that is an entirely different ball game as well.

One of the benefits of hand walking is one can get a real feel for the development and progress of the dog. Paying attention to the rate and length the dog pulls at one weight and feeling that same rate and length as the weight decreases, and then recognizing the fall off is a really good way to call a weight. Granted other equipment is being used all the while, but personally feeling the power of the dog is a great learning tool. I am a big fan myself.

Again, hand walking is just like a slat mill. They are both tools. The very best slat mill on the planet used incorrectly is not worth a squirt of piss. If a person wanted to dig a hole he could use a claw hammer, a shovel, or a set of post hole diggers. All three can dig a hole but each are suited to dig a certain type/size hole. Dog equipment is no different.

The risk/reward factor is a biggie as well. It is really, really hard to over walk a dog. A well fed, lean and fit bulldog would need some variables to be hurt by walking. Hot asphalt/concrete, other surfaces that would damage a pad. A hard pulling dog pulling against a collar on his throat for lengths of time. Un tethered dogs/animals one could happen upon. Just like anything there are drawbacks.

Great posts. EWO