Building Stable, Behaviourally Sound Walking Groups: Tips for Dog Walkers
- Tori Lynn Crowther
- Nov 8, 2025
- 6 min read
Building Stable, Behaviourally Sound Walking Groups: Tips for Dog Walkers
As a professional dog walker, your groups are the heart of your service. A well-structured group not only provides physical exercise and mental stimulation for the dogs but also keeps everyone safe and happy—your clients’ dogs, you, and the dogs in the group itself.
One of the most important factors in making group walks successful is ensuring the dogs are compatible with each other, which can sometimes feel like a juggling act.
Building stable, behaviourally sound walking groups takes a little more effort at the beginning, but once you find the right balance, your groups will run more smoothly, ensuring a safer, more enjoyable walk for everyone. Here’s how to create and maintain groups that are harmonious, happy, and safe.
1. Understand Your Dogs' Personalities and Behaviour
The first step in creating a behaviourally sound walking group is knowing the personalities of the dogs you're working with. Each dog has its own quirks, and it’s crucial to understand what makes each one tick.
Consider:
Energy levels: Some dogs are high-energy, requiring lots of exercise and stimulation, while others are more relaxed and low-key.
Temperament: Is the dog friendly, shy, nervous, or dominant? Knowing this will help prevent conflicts in the group.
Socialisation skills: Some dogs are more comfortable with others, while others prefer solitude or need time to adjust.
Triggers: Does a dog have any triggers that might cause aggression or anxiety? This could include specific types of dogs, certain sounds, or fast-moving objects.
By understanding these characteristics, you can better pair dogs who are likely to get along and avoid potential issues.
2. Grouping Dogs Based on Similar Energy Levels and Temperaments
It’s crucial to group dogs with similar energy levels and temperaments together. A calm dog might feel overwhelmed by a high-energy playmate, and a highly energetic dog may not be suited to a slow-paced group.
Here’s a basic framework for grouping dogs:
High-energy dogs: These dogs benefit from walks with others who share their enthusiasm for running, sniffing, and exploring. They thrive in groups with active dogs.
Low-energy dogs: Calm dogs who enjoy a gentle stroll or need some quiet time will be better suited to a more laid-back group of dogs.
Reactive dogs: Dogs who are nervous or reactive towards strangers or other dogs might need a solo walk, or a group with similarly shy or calm dogs. Keep an eye on them for signs of stress or overstimulation.
Mixed temperament dogs: If you’re working with dogs of different temperaments, make sure there’s a balance—perhaps pairing more confident dogs with more submissive ones, or giving shy dogs space to relax in the group.
By maintaining a mix of dogs that complement one another in terms of energy and temperament, you create a more balanced and harmonious group dynamic.
3. Gradually Introduce New Dogs to the Group
When introducing a new dog to an established group, always do so gradually and with caution. Dogs need time to adjust to new faces, and their initial reaction may not be a true reflection of how they'll behave in the long run.
Steps for a successful introduction:
Neutral territory: Meet the new dog in a neutral environment before bringing them into the group setting.
One-on-one time: Allow the new dog to have a solo walk with you first so you can assess their behaviour, energy, and social skills.
Slow introduction: Introduce the new dog to one or two members of the group at a time. Gradually increase the size of the group as you monitor their reactions.
Monitor body language: Watch for signs of discomfort, anxiety, or aggression. If a dog displays signs of fear or stress, separate them and take the necessary steps to help them adjust.
Taking your time with introductions ensures that you’re not putting any dogs in stressful situations and helps you avoid conflicts before they arise.
4. Manage Dog Interactions During Walks
On the walk itself, ensure you’re supervising interactions closely. Watch for signs of tension or excitement, and be prepared to step in if needed. A stable group dynamic is often about maintaining harmony by managing the dogs’ behaviour.
Key things to watch for:
Play styles: Some dogs may enjoy a lot of rough and tumble, while others may prefer gentler interactions. Make sure to gauge how dogs respond to each other during play.
Signs of stress or discomfort: Raised hackles, tense body language, growling, or prolonged barking may indicate tension. If a dog is uncomfortable, try redirecting their attention or separating them from the group for a brief timeout.
Positive reinforcement: Reward calm behaviour with treats or praise. Encourage good interactions with other dogs so that each dog feels comfortable in the group.
It’s important to be proactive rather than reactive. Anticipate when things may escalate and intervene early to prevent problems.
5. Keep the Group Size Manageable
The number of dogs in a group can greatly affect the overall dynamic. While group walks are fun and stimulating, too many dogs can lead to overstimulation, confusion, and stress.
Guidelines for group size:
A group of 4-6 dogs is ideal for most walkers, but this will depend on the space you’re walking in and the dogs' individual needs.
Consider a smaller group for more sensitive or reactive dogs—this helps prevent overwhelming them.
Be mindful of the dog-to-handler ratio: If you’re working with a larger group, make sure you can maintain control and respond quickly in case of an issue.
The more dogs you manage at once, the more challenging it becomes to keep everything under control. Keep group sizes at a level where you feel you can properly supervise all dogs.
6. Regularly Evaluate the Group’s Dynamics
Group dynamics can change over time, so it’s important to continually assess how the dogs are interacting with each other. Keep track of behavioural shifts that might indicate stress, anxiety, or problems within the group.
Things to consider:
Is any dog showing signs of discomfort during walks?
Are there any recurring conflicts or aggressive behaviours?
Has the energy level of the group changed over time?
If you notice any issues, it might be time to reassess the group’s compatibility and make adjustments accordingly. You may need to split the group into smaller units or even introduce a new routine to address emerging challenges.
7. Set Expectations with Clients
Clients need to understand that you will only accept dogs into group walks if they’re well-suited to the dynamics of the group. Be transparent about your approach, and be ready to discuss why certain dogs might not be appropriate for group settings.
Make sure your clients know:
You carefully assess which dogs are compatible with others
You’re committed to their dog’s safety and well-being
If necessary, you will offer solo walks or refer them to a behaviour specialist if their dog isn’t a good fit for a group dynamic
Setting these expectations up front can prevent misunderstandings down the line and maintain your reputation as a professional who puts the dogs’ welfare first.
Final Thoughts
Building stable, behaviourally sound walking groups takes time, patience, and a keen understanding of dog behaviour. By considering each dog’s individual needs, temperament, and energy level, you can create groups that not only get along but thrive together. With thoughtful management, a careful introduction process, and constant evaluation, you’ll be able to offer clients a safe and enjoyable group walk experience, while maintaining a happy, harmonious environment for all the dogs in your care.
See The Dog House Resources for templates you can use.
This is a template for the pack lounge, copy and change
About Tori & TLC Canine Crusaders Business Hub
I’m Tori, founder of TLC Canine Crusaders Business Hub and The Dog House, where I help dog walkers and dog owners build confidence, clarity, and success. With years of hands-on experience running a busy dog walking company and training academy, my mission is to make the industry easier to navigate. Whether you're growing your business or supporting your dog at home, you’ll find practical guidance, community support, and resources designed to help you thrive.
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