I am looking to buy a puppy within the next couple months, and would like to hear your opinions on the best breed for trail riding. I want a dog that is big enough to keep up and not get stepped on by my horse, but that is small enough to comfortably fit in my trailers living quarters. I was told that the dalmatian is a "horsey" breed, but they are almost too big for me. I've also heard that the border collie is a great trail companion, but correct me if I'm wrong, it seems like they would get REALLY hot in that thick black coat. I am usually riding in 95 to 105 degree weather (in the woods though, so it's a little cooler) and am crossing mud, creeks, steep hills, rocks, thick brush, etc. I think a dog with long hair will only be maintenance. i am very interested in the Brittany, but since they are a bird dog, will I have a problem with them running off the trail after a bird? And do they cross water willingly? I was also looking at the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, but I really don't know much about them. Currently, I have a male Cocker spaniel, and though he has a winning personality, he won't cross a creek for his life, and he doesn't have enough energy to last on a trail ride. I would be willing to look into mix breeds, but their characteristics seem to be random, and when I buy my puppy, I have to know that it will be able to last long distances, follow me through any terrain, and not overheat. I live in a neighborhood, but my yard is about 7 acres. 1 acre of open yard, and 6 acres of woods. If you count the farm where I board my horse, the dog would have about 12 acres overall to roam, so space shouldn't be a problem. I also go trail riding every weekend, and ride everyday. A high energy dog is great, and I do have the space and time for one. Any help is great, and to anyone who owns any of the dogs mentioned, if I said anything about the breed that you find false, please know that it is a general assumption, or something I heard from somebody else. Feel free to correct me if I'm wrong. Thanks!