This also ensures that the llamas padded foot will be toughened up before going on an extended trip in rough country. Their feet are soft and leathery, like a dogs pads, and do less damage to the trail than your hiking boots. It is important to condition your llama through proper exercise and training to prevent any injuries or problems on the trail. Most llamas readily accept a pack, however, not every llama will make a good pack animal. When selecting llamas for packing, the most important things to look for are correct structure and conformation.
Disposition is equally important.
Many llamas are not mentally suited for packing while others are not physically suited for such activity. Just as in human athletes, the right combination of physical structure, conditioning, and mental attitude are necessary to produce a sound, healthy individual capable of doing the job required. Take great care in these areas when selecting a llama you want for a hard-working trail companion. There are many breeders today that are emphasizing the above traits in their breeding programs and offer guarantees that will insure you get an animal well suited for the job. In the long run, it will pay to select your llama with these qualities in mind.