Walking Groups of Dogs: Training, Safety, and Expert Strategies
- Tori Lynn Crowther
- Aug 1, 2025
- 5 min read
Walking Groups of Dogs: Training, Safety, and Expert Strategies
Walking a single dog can be straightforward, but managing groups of dogs is an entirely different challenge. Done well, group walks provide physical exercise, mental stimulation, socialisation, and behaviour reinforcement—but poorly managed, they can quickly become stressful, unsafe, and even dangerous. This guide dives deep into the art and science of walking multiple dogs safely while keeping training and enrichment at the forefront.
1. Understanding Group Dynamics
Canine Social Hierarchy
Dogs are social animals, but group dynamics are not always intuitive. In a group, dogs establish hierarchies based on confidence, resource control, and temperament. Key points:
Dominant vs. submissive personalities: Some dogs assert themselves verbally or physically, while others avoid confrontation. Do not mistake dominance with aggression or bullying.
Resource guarding tendencies: Dogs may compete over toys, food, or even attention from the walker.
Energy levels and play styles: A high-energy Border Collie may overwhelm a slower, older dog, leading to stress or potential aggression.
Tip: Observe your dogs individually before grouping. Create “compatible packs” based on size, temperament, and energy level to reduce conflict.
2. Pre-Walk Preparation
Assessing Each Dog
Before a group walk, ensure you know each dog’s:
Medical history and fitness level: Older dogs or those with joint problems may need shorter, slower walks.
Behaviour triggers: Aggression toward other dogs, fear of loud noises, or leash reactivity.
Leash skills: Only dogs with basic leash manners should be in a multi-dog group.
Equipment Checks
Safety begins with proper equipment:
Harnesses vs. collars: Harnesses provide control without choking. Collars may be used for identification but not for primary control in active groups.
Leash length and type: Standard 4–6 ft leads allow better control. Extendable leads are rarely safe in group walks.
Muzzles: Some dogs may require muzzle training for safety, especially reactive or fearful dogs.
ID and GPS tracking: Accidents happen. Ensure each dog has an ID tag, microchip, and, ideally, a GPS tracker if near open spaces.
3. Training Before Group Walks
Basic Commands Are Non-Negotiable
All dogs in a group must reliably respond to:
Recall (off-lead walks)
Leave it / drop it
Sit, stay, and heel
Look at me / attention cue
Without these, safety becomes almost impossible to guarantee. Reinforce these commands individually before introducing them to a group setting.
Incremental Socialisation
Start with parallel walking: Walk dogs separately but parallel on opposite sides of a fence or path.
Gradually move to short, controlled introductions in neutral areas.
Avoid forcing interaction—stressful encounters can set back socialisation progress.
4. The Walk: Structure and Safety
Walk Formation
Single file vs. side-by-side: Narrow paths require single file; open fields may allow side-by-side walking.
Spacing: Keep enough space between dogs to prevent tension. Too close can trigger fights, too far reduces control.
Constant Observation
Professional walkers must track:
Body language: stiff tails, raised hackles, lip licking, or avoidance.
Subtle shifts in group hierarchy or tension.
Environmental triggers: other dogs, wildlife, cyclists, or loud vehicles.
Pro tip: Position yourself where you can see all dogs at once, ideally slightly ahead of the group to anticipate movement and stress.
Handling Interruptions
Unexpected situations can arise:
Dog-to-dog confrontations: Use calm voice, barrier if necessary, or separate dogs temporarily.
Wildlife or traffic: Have a plan to gain attention immediately—whistle, recall, or treat-based focus.
Injuries: Know basic canine first aid. Carry a first aid kit with bandages, styptic powder, and emergency contacts.
5. Managing Different Needs
Age and Size
Puppies have short attention spans, tiny bladders, and fragile joints. Limit walk duration and surface impact.
Large, adult dogs may dominate space if not trained. Keep energy levels compatible.
Reactive or Fearful Dogs
Position them at the front, or use solo or parallel walks before integrating.
Reward calm behaviour and gradually increase exposure.
6. Mental Stimulation During Walks
Walking isn’t just physical exercise. Dogs need mental engagement:
Scent work: Let dogs explore scents safely to satisfy natural instincts.
Training opportunities: Practice commands in real-world environments.
Structured play: Games like fetch or tug should be safe and controlled, ideally in a fenced or secure area.
7. Post-Walk Assessment
After the walk:
Observe for signs of stress or injury.
Reward calm behaviour at home to reinforce positive experiences.
Reflect on group dynamics: Did any dog show new aggression or anxiety? Adjust future walks accordingly.
8. Safety Considerations Often Overlooked
Environmental hazards: Broken glass, sharp stones, puddles of unknown chemicals.
Heat and cold stress: Monitor temperature; paws burn on hot pavements, and small dogs may struggle in snow.
Dog-to-dog disease transmission: Ensure vaccinations and parasite control are up to date.
Emergency exits: Know safe routes to your vehicle or home in case of a sudden incident.
Human safety: Walkers should maintain calm, confident energy, proper footwear, and never allow themselves to be pulled off balance.
9. Key Takeaways
Successful group walks require planning, observation, and training.
Compatibility is more important than pack size. Small, well-matched groups are safer and more enjoyable.
Always anticipate the unexpected: dogs, people, wildlife, weather, and environment can introduce risk.
Walks are both exercise and enrichment. Use them to reinforce training, stimulate the mind, and build confidence.
Professional walkers must think like a dog behaviourist and safety officer simultaneously.
Walking groups of dogs is as much an art as it is a science. With preparation, training, and awareness, you can turn a potentially stressful scenario into a rich, rewarding experience for both dogs and walkers alike. Done correctly, group walks build trust, improve social skills, and give dogs the stimulation they need to thrive.
About Tori Lynn C. & The Dog House
Welcome to The Dog House — my cosy corner of the TLC Canine Crusaders Business Hub. I’m Tori Lynn C., the founder of TLC Dog Walking Limited, mentor to professional dog walkers, and lifelong advocate for dogs and the people who care for them. With over 17 years of hands-on experience in the industry, my mission is to guide you through the realities of running a successful, sustainable dog walking business — from client care and safety to wellbeing, confidence, and professional growth.
The Dog House is where I share the honest, behind-the-scenes conversations we all need: the tricky moments, the funny bits, the business lessons, and the mindset work that keeps us thriving rather than merely surviving. Whether you're just starting out or scaling up, you’ll always find support, guidance, and a friendly nudge forward here.
You’re never alone in this journey — you’re part of a community of canine crusaders.
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