Fetch Fido! The robotic dog that could revolutionise the military

A robot dog that runs, climbs rough terrain and carries heavy loads has become an internet sensation after video footage attracted millions of viewers.

BigDog was created by engineering company Boston Dynamics for the American military.

The robot, which is the size of a large dog, is powered by a gasoline engine that drives its hydraulic system.

In trials the intrepid hound was able to run at 4 mph, climb slopes up to 35 degrees steep and walk across rubble while carrying a 340lb load.

The robotic rover has legs that move like an animal's and can absorb shock by repositioning its three joints up to 500 times a second .

During a demonstration video, which was viewed by more than 6m people on YouTube, it managed to keep its footing on an uneven surface after being shoved sideways.

BigDog has an on-board computer that helps it to balance, steer and navigate as conditions vary. Other sensors focus on the internal state of the robot, monitoring the hydraulic pressure, oil temperature, engine temperature and battery charge.

Current models are remote-controlled from bases, however it is believed scientists are working on sight sensors that will allow BigDog to make basic movement decisions.

The project was sponsored by the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, which comes up with radical inventions for the military.

Watch BigDog in action here...