Speaking of carrying in woods. While horse packing I carried a Ruger 44 magnum.
Not for the bears, but to put down a hurt horse or the person I was riding with if they became to annoying.
I remember this being debated around 90 or so when I lived on the west side before moving to Montana.
More people are killed by black bears, even in grizzly country. You just have to learn how to go through the woods, set up camp, etc. Lot of grizzly in the Bob, doesn’t keep people from hunting...
Our last Lab would fetch the ball once each time you thew it. Period
Our current lab wears herself out, though instead of bringing it directly to you, she throws it back at you from 3-4 feet.
People get dogs like they do fancy vehicles. Not understanding/realizing the investment.