When Two Is a Crowd
While it may seem convenient to walk your two (or more) dogs at the same time, it is not always the best option for you or your dogs. Walking them separately may lead to calmer and more enjoyable walks for everyone involved.
Vesper and JJ during a walk
Each dog is a unique individual with her own needs, usually different to the needs to other dogs living in the same household. Different energy levels, different interests and let’s not forget about their health and age. While a healthy adult dog may enjoy one walk, puppies, seniors and dogs suffering medical conditions require a very different walk altogether.
Walking together may be fun and exciting. In the photos you see Vesper and Jack-Jack in one of their joint walks. They don’t usually walk together but when they do the excitement is high. Too much excitement can lead to a less enjoyable walk if the needs of the dogs are totally different.
For example, a dog may want to reach that amazing spot that their companion is sniffing and rush to get there. Or one dog may be smaller, like JJ, and feel the need to run to reach a bigger dog that is in front because they are walking faster. Understanding our dogs’ needs as individuals, and tailoring each walk for the needs of each dog will benefit all.
We wrote about tailored walks before:
Talking our dogs for walks separately may seem like a burden but there are so many positives to gain from it.
We can concentrate better on our leash skills and practice a little while we encourage calm behaviour.
Tuning into our dog's needs improves the communication between us because it is easier to spot and respond to their body language and what they are telling us.
We can help them learn to manage the excitement and stay calm in different environments and situations because we can dedicate all our time to that one dog.
This dedicated time means connection and the possibility of catering for her preferences, allowing her to explore more in new places or engage in specific activities that she enjoys.
A tailored walk will result in a dog that is mentally and physically satisfied.
Enriching solo walks can be as easy as doing some scent activities, walking in different surfaces - grass, sand, cement, trails - to engage all the senses. We can add some quiet moments to the walk, take breaks, sit together and observe the surroundings.
A quality walk isn’t about how far you go; it is about how fulfilling the experience is.
A quality walk does not mean a long distance walk
Calm, individualised walks can make a world of difference in your dogs’ wellbeing and your peace of mind.
