Walking two dogs together: A complete guide.
How to walk two dogs together? A complete guide:
Almost 56.04% of people in the US own a dog, whereas 14.76% own more than one dog. Walking two dogs together is simultaneously an enjoyable and fulfilling experience. It creates a fostering bond between you and your pet companions.
According to research conducted in the UK, people owning dogs live longer and are happier. However, managing two dogs together can sometimes be more chaotic than an exciting experience, such as maintaining control, leash tangling, and handling unpredictable dog behaviors.
That is why it is necessary to understand your dog's behaviors and the role of efficient training for a stress-free walking experience.
Now, why do you have to walk your dogs together?
The 1st reason can be that you might love walking your dogs together and enjoy their company. The other reason can be that you do not have anyone to help you to walk your dogs.
Why it's challenging to walk two dogs together?
- Energy dynamics:
You have probably noticed that walking two calm dogs together is more effortless than walking two large and energetic dogs together. Dogs often wear off each other's energy, so walking a hyper dog might increase the risk of arousing the calmer one.
- Speed differences:
Another problem is the difference between your speed and your dog's speed. Humans walk on the soles of their feet, whereas dogs walk on the tips of their toes, naturally making them fast walkers. So, it is best to attain a speed that makes both you and your dogs comfortable and avoid dogs pulling.
- Impulsivity:
Another factor to consider is impulsivity. Usually, dogs that haven't received any training or are young tend to pull more than dogs that have been trained and are older.
Walking dogs is like building a sand castle on the beach; one wrong move and all the efforts can go in vain. Similarly, inconsistent training can undo all your hard work, causing you to start from zero.
Use a leash splitter or a coupler.
Factors to consider while walking two dogs:
Multiple factors should be kept in mind while walking two dogs together. Understand which dog breeds are more compatible, consider their size, and analyze the behavior in advance to avoid unforeseen incidents. Decide on which of your side each dog will walk. It is easier to handle dogs if they get the training to walk on a specific side. Plan your final goal because when dogs are not used to walking on a specified side, it can confuse them. Other factors include safety measures, proper equipment, and positive feedback.
- Safety measures:
Put name tags: Put name tags on each dog's collar to ensure safe return if they get loose.
Train in different settings: However, training your dogs to walk in diverse settings is an ideal case. But for a more hassle-free experience, plan the route and a specific timing or setting.
Build cues: Build cues to monitor and train them in specified ways. For example, make them familiar with your clapping or stomping to stop them from doing unfavorable behavior.
- Proper equipment:
Dog essentials: Take care of the needs of your dogs. Bring a water bottle, treats, a dog bag, and a poop scooper with you. It does not leave a good impact on others having your dog poop everywhere.
Proper leash length: Choose leashes of appropriate length for each dog. The leashes should not be tight enough to make dogs uncomfortable, causing them to pull more than often or too loose to get tangled.
Use leash splitter: If you want to walk the dogs at the front, use a leash splitter as it allows you to walk two dogs on one leash, freeing up your other hands, reducing tangibility, and giving improved control. However, using a splitter can be challenging to exert individual control over each dog.
- Positive feedback:
Just like humans, pets also need assurance and appreciation. So next time, when your dogs possess favorable behavior, praise them with a pat or reward them with a treat. It will help them to understand that if they act upon a particular behavior, they will receive a reward.
Individual Training:
Before walking two dogs together, it is crucial to walk them individually. If you want one of your dogs to walk on the right side and the other on the left, train them beforehand on the desirable side. Train your dogs with basic commands such as 'stop' and 'sit'.
Practice, practice, practice:
Consistent training is crucial to ensure that dogs get trained enough to stick with preferable behavior. Also, try walking them in different settings. Take your dogs for a walk consistently, analyze their behavior, and adjust the training accordingly.
What to do if things do not work as planned?
In case things do not work as planned and the challenges persist even after applying all the tips and tricks, ask for someone else assistance to walk your other dog with you or consider walking both dogs separately.
Conclusion:
Walking two dogs requires patience, preparation, careful consideration, and persistent training. Remember, walking your dogs together should be a carefree and enjoyable experience for you. Understanding your dogs' needs, ensuring proper equipment, and implementing positive reinforcement can create a better walking experience that will benefit you and your furry companions.
FAQs:
Q: What if my dogs pull a lot during walks?
A: Use proper leash techniques, consider using a coupler, and provide positive reinforcement.
Q: How do I manage impulsive behavior during walks?
A: Train each dog individually for impulse control and consider using treats as rewards for calm behavior.
Q: Can I use a leash splitter for my dogs?
A: Yes, leash splitters can be effective, but train your dogs beforehand to walk in front to avoid confusion.
Q: What if my dogs don't get along during walks?
A: Consider walking them individually or seeking professional advice.
