How to Handle Walks with Multiple Dogs Without Losing Your Mind
Having multiple dogs is a dream for many animal lovers. Yet, when it comes time to walk them, chaos often ensues. If the dogs walk at different paces or in opposite directions, it’s easy to trip over leashes or get walking gear tangled.
Luckily, walking multiple dogs doesn’t have to test your patience. With proper products, training, and adjustments, your walks can be much smoother than before.
Start with the Right Gear
First, make sure you have suitable walking gear. Look for leads that are strong, tangle-resistant, and easy to grip, such as rope leads. If the dogs are the same size and walk at the same pace, consider a split lead, also known as a coupler. This leash type splits at the end with a clip for each dog. This keeps dogs close together while also making it harder for them to get tangled.
In addition to choosing tangle-free leads, opt for tools that improve control. Harnesses can keep dogs comfortable when they pull because they don’t apply pressure to their necks. If you want to work on leash training, consider a martingale collar or slip lead, which tighten around your dog’s neck when they pull. You can teach your dog that the tightening feeling means to stop pulling and check in with you.
Of course, for proper leash training, you should always have training treats along, ideally in a treat pouch to reduce the mess. Waste bags and water bottles are always ideal items to have, regardless of how many dogs you’re walking.
Know Your Dogs’ Needs
Every dog has a unique walk style that can help you learn more about them. When possible, try to pair dogs of similar walk styles together for a smooth walk. If one dog constantly pulls forward while the other stops to sniff everything, that’s a recipe for disaster. If you have a reactive dog, consider if they behave better or worse with another dog walking with them.
When two dogs have completely opposite walking styles, walking them together might not make sense. Give them separate walks or walk with another person so each of you can control one dog. For high-energy dogs, walking separately from other dogs can make it easier for you to control and train them.
Train Separately Before Walking Together
Leash training is the key to helping dogs walk better, both alone and with other dogs. Early leash training starts with introducing basic cues, such as “let’s go,” “leave it,” and “wait,” to get your dog’s attention during walks. These cues should be practiced in a controlled environment, such as your home, before introducing them during walks. More importantly, they should be practiced alone.
One-on-one training sessions with your dog are the best way to keep them focused while helping them form a bond with you. Teach leash manners to each dog separately, and wait until both dogs are confident in their new skills before walking them together. It can be a tedious process, but once each dog has learned the basics, it’ll make walking multiple dogs smooth and stress-free.
As you’re walking your dogs, reward them when they listen to your cues and walk calmly. This is especially important in high-distraction zones, since those can be the hardest spots for dogs to stay relaxed and focused.
Plan Your Route (and Timing)
The route you choose can affect how well your dogs walk together. Stick to quieter areas to keep the dogs calm and focused. Follow wider paths to avoid congestion. If possible, walk during less busy times of day to minimise the number of distractions for your dogs, especially while you’re still getting the hang of training.
It can take a while to master the art of walking multiple dogs. So, start with short walks in low-traffic areas as you tackle the basics. Then, as walking multiple dogs gets easier, you can increase the length of walks and try busier areas.
Keep Calm and Adjust as Needed
Walks can vary depending on the day, and that’s okay. Some days, your dogs may walk perfectly together, but other days, it might be a challenge. If things aren’t going as planned, remember to stay calm around your dogs. Then, consider adjusting the routine as needed. Don’t be afraid to walk your dogs separately on difficult days. Not every walk has to be together.
If chaos occurs while you’re walking, take a moment to pause and breathe before continuing. All dog lovers face some challenges while training multiple dogs, so it’s okay if you need a moment to reset. To make walks positive for you and your dog, celebrate small wins. If no one gets tangled or if there’s less barking than usual, that’s great progress.
Walking multiple dogs can be a handful, but with practice, patience, and the right gear, it can become fun and stress-free. Once you find your rhythm, walks will be something you and your dogs look forward to.