3 Tips for Balancing Multiple Dogs' Needs On a Group Walk

Balancing the needs of multiple dogs on a group walk requires a combination of preparation, observation, and structure. One technique I rely on is pre-walk grouping based on temperament and energy levels. Before any group walk, I carefully assess each dog's personality, physical ability, and social behavior. This allows me to match dogs who walk well together—pairing high-energy pups with compatible playmates, and keeping more reserved or older dogs in calmer groups.

During the walk, I use a structured rotation system where I check in with each dog at specific intervals—this could mean pausing to adjust a harness, giving one-on-one verbal praise, or allowing a sniff break for a dog who may need extra stimulation or reassurance. I also maintain a consistent walking order and use color-coded leashes to stay organized and avoid tangle-ups.

This system ensures every dog feels seen, safe, and stimulated. It's not just about walking a pack—it's about honoring each dog's individual experience while promoting healthy group behavior.

When I coordinate VIP group transport with clients who bring pets—especially multiple dogs—I apply the same technique I use to manage high-profile convoys: zone-based attention.

We once handled a French diplomat's relocation from Polanco to Coyoacán with three large dogs, each with different temperaments and stress levels. Instead of treating them as one unit, I assigned a "handler" (in this case, a driver trained in canine behavior) to focus on each dog's zone—front, middle, and rear. This approach helped us read each animal's cues without overwhelming them.

The key was using subtle micro-pauses during the walk or boarding to reset eye contact, give each dog a calming cue or soft vocal reinforcement, and adapt pacing. That alone kept things peaceful and avoided reactivity.

The same logic applies whether I'm walking dogs, managing a motorcade, or overseeing airport pickups: every individual wants to feel seen—even the four-legged ones.

Dear Gigs Magazine Team,

Thank you for the opportunity to contribute to this important topic.

How do we balance the needs of multiple dogs on a group walk, ensuring each dog receives individual care and engagement?

At Zoeta Dogsoul, we see walking not as the main activity, but as the minimum baseline of what we owe our dogs in terms of movement and stimulation. Real engagement begins when we intentionally structure the walk to address not just physical exercise, but emotional regulation, tolerance, and impulse control--especially in a group setting.

Here's one technique we use in group walks with five or more dogs:

We bring the majority of dogs into a controlled "stay" or "wait" position--what we call "bringing them into the blei"--while we take one dog and calmly walk it past the others. After a short distance, this dog is brought to a stop and asked to wait, and the next dog is taken and walked past the group in the same way. This cycle continues until each dog has had its turn.

Why does this matter?

This technique addresses multiple layers of need simultaneously:

1. The waiting dogs practice emotional composure, learn to tolerate movement and stimulation, and are given a meaningful "task" (waiting is work).

2. The walking dog learns to pass calmly and respectfully by others--an essential part of social stability in a group.

3. The handler reinforces trust, structure, and communication, ensuring that every dog feels seen, heard, and understood.

This approach turns a basic group walk into a dynamic training field--promoting patience, self-control, and social intelligence.