Molecular biologist explains why he lets Retriever dog run 26 miles in the forest every day — with one specific mission
A Molecular Biologist recently shared why he lets his Retriever run deep into the forest every day, often covering up to 26 miles, and how everything begins with one specific command he uses without fail. He revealed the details in a video posted on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, offering a clear look at how the dog’s daily outings are part of something more structured than they first seem. The scientist’s explanation shows how steady practice, confidence, and habit shape the bond he has with his dog.
As reported by the American Kennel Club, the channel that shared the video said Lincoln “loves searching,” calling it the thing he enjoys most. His handler, John, explained that once they step out of the car, the dog already understands the task ahead. John demonstrated the moment by giving the cue “search,” which sends Lincoln forward with full focus. He added that the dog is willing to keep going for hours and has even logged “26 miles in a day.” John noted that the breed’s “classic stubbornness” actually helps Lincoln push farther when conditions call for it. He also said he began volunteering because it allowed him to combine his interest in dogs with meaningful community work.
John described how people naturally release scent through heat and movement, forming what he called a “scent cone” that trained dogs can follow even at a distance. After the cue is given, Lincoln moves into a controlled pattern, turning with the wind and examining the area much like a skilled hunting dog. Jennifer Brenes, President of King County Search and Rescue, mentioned that John does a “remarkable job” reading Lincoln’s behavior and that there is a natural “ebb and flow” in how the two work together. When Lincoln returns and takes the small indicator ball clipped to John’s belt, it signals that he has located someone, and with the next command, “show me,” he guides John back. Jennifer noted that Lincoln can "work 8 hours a day and come back to the command post," showing dedication and resilience.
John said he spent more than 600 hours on missions and training in the past year, with close to 40 callouts coming from the King County Sheriff’s Office. Many operations involve several teams and multiple zones, and most results simply confirm that no one is in a given area, which he said is just as important. Lincoln’s owner, Edith Gardiner, said she feels encouraged by how many people give their time “to help a person who needs help.” John added that Lincoln has had two live finds in a year and a half, both involving elderly dementia patients. Jennifer recalled leading one of those operations and hearing the radio confirm the find, saying moments like that leave you “gobsmacked.” Edith said that Lincoln may be their pet at home, but he still “goes out and makes a difference in people's lives, that's pretty amazing,” and she could not be prouder of him.