Walking two dogs at once can be a serious challenge. I've been walking 3 dogs (currently 2, RIP Buddy) for the past 4 years and I've learned a trick or two to make walking 2 dogs much simpler and honestly, more fun!
Of course, you've got to be patient. Patience, time, and consistency are vital to successfully walking two dogs at the same time. (Also, these tips are still helpful if you only have one dog!)
Related Reading: How to Introduce a New Puppy to Your Dog
LISTEN TO PODCAST ABOUT WALKING TWO DOGS
Want to hear more podcasts like this? Please click here.
WATCH VIDEO
Want to see more videos like this? Please click here.
TIPS FOR WALKING MULTIPLE DOGS
Learning to walk two dogs (or even three or more) is a process. You not only have to teach the dogs how to behave on a leash together, but you as the human must learn a thing or two as well.
And we will say this as a main point... You should train each dog individually on a leash first! Trying to leash train two dogs at once will be rough, trust me.
Here are 3 main tips for walking multiple dogs at once:
- Train each dog individually first
- Use the right gear, specific leashes make a huge difference
- Reward positive moments
Now, let's dive into each one. ⤵️
1. TRAIN INDIVIDUALLY
This isn't negotiable. You MUST train your dogs separately before you practice training them together.
Walking two un-trained dogs will lead to tangling, frustration, and not enjoyable walks.
Our dogs need that 1-to-1 focus, so put in the extra time and train each dog individually!
For more on walking your dog, check out our course at Pupford Academy Plus on Leash Walking.
🐶 Need training help? Sign up for the 100% free class 30 Day Perfect Pup, including a leash walking module. Sign up for free here! 🐶
2. USE THE RIGHT GEAR, ESPECIALLY A LEASH MADE FOR WALKING TWO DOGS
Like any effort in life, having the right gear does make a difference. I've tried way too many types of harnesses and leashes and finally found which ones work best.
A double-leash with a waistband is vital. Once you're ready to walk both dogs together, having a double leash will make your life much easier. This is especially true when walking in cold or snowy weather!
And the waistband may seem awkward at first, but it helps tremendously. This is the one I use.
While you may decide against the waist band, your life will be MUCH easier with a leash built specifically for walking multiple dogs at once. The anti-tangling connector piece is an absolute game changer, truly. Read our full comparison of leash types here.
And I ALWAYS use the Freedom No-Pull Harness with all of my dogs. Every single walk.
Here is a link to try it out (measure twice, buy once).
🐶 Don't miss out, try the Freedom No-Pull Harness today! 🐶
3. REWARD POSITIVE MOMENTS
This is the most underrated leash-walking tip... reward the good moments. I know it sounds overly simple, but I see people constantly only worrying about the "bad" moments and never rewarding the "good" moments out on walks.
You can't just constantly tell your dog what NOT to do... That's only one side of the equation.
When your dog gives you eye contact, mark, and reward.
When your dog is by your side, mark, and reward.
When your dog does NOT react to a dog, bike, skateboard, etc., mark and reward.
Reward ALL of the positive moments.
Again, practice patience and be consistent!
Related Reading: How to Train Multiple Dogs
RECAP OF WALKING TWO DOGS AT ONCE
Walking multiple dogs at once can be a challenge, but is also extremely rewarding. I truly believe my dogs have more enjoyable walks when they get to experience them together!
Again, here's a recap of some tips for walking two (or multiple) dogs at once:
- Train each dog individually first
- Use the right gear, leashes made for multiple dogs make a huge difference
- Reward positive moments
What else has helped you when walking two dogs? Let me know in the comments!
Related Reading: Littermate Syndrome in Dogs
