How to Walk 2 Dogs at The Same Time

Walking one dog can be a bit of a workout already. But two? That’s a whole new level of chaos if you are not prepared.

I mean, one wants to sniff every blade of grass and the other is charging ahead like it’s the Iditarod. Sound familiar?

Now imagine doing that in flip flops while balancing a coffee and trying not to step in… well, you know.

But seriously, walking two dogs at the same time can actually be enjoyable, even smooth, once you get a few things figured out.

Start With The Right Leash Setup

Before you even step outside, take a moment to look at what you’re using. Are you juggling two separate leads that keep tangling like spaghetti? Might be time to rethink the gear.

Some folks swear by a leash splitter, which clips onto a single leash and attaches to both collars. Others prefer two separate leashes with a double handle setup for better control. Try both and see what feels less like wrangling toddlers at a theme park.

One thing though, those retractable leads? Not the best idea when managing two dogs. One sprint and you’re suddenly flying down the pavement like a kite in the wind.

Train Each Dog Individually First

This bit matters more than folks like to admit. You can’t expect your dogs to walk calmly together if they can’t walk calmly on their own.

Spend time walking them one-on-one. Teach them not to pull. Help them focus. Once they both get the hang of it, then try bringing them together.

And yeah, it might feel like double the work in the beginning. But trust me, it saves a load of headaches later.

Sync Their Pace And Personalities

Here’s the tricky part. Not all dogs move the same. One might be slow and sniffy, the other speedy and business-like. Getting them to find a rhythm takes patience.

Start with short walks. Let them get used to walking side by side without bumping into each other every five steps.

Reward them when they stay in position. And don’t worry if you have to stop a dozen times to untangle yourself at first. Been there.

Oh, and if one is a bit reactive, try placing that dog on the inside, away from distractions like other dogs or noisy roads. Little tweaks like that can make a big difference.

Stay Aware Of Your Surroundings

Walking two dogs means double the awareness. Cars, kids, cats on fences, loose dogs coming your way, it can get real real fast.

Try to avoid super crowded routes, especially early on. Choose quieter paths, wide sidewalks, or even early morning walks when everything’s still sleepy.

Keep your leash hand free and steady, maybe loop the leads around your wrist if it helps. If your hands are juggling water bottles and phones, you’re setting yourself up for a tangle.

One time I saw a guy get caught in a double leash mess so badly he ended up hopping down the curb on one leg like a confused flamingo. It’s funny now, but ouch.

Know When To Stop Or Split

Here’s something not enough people talk about. Some dogs just aren’t great walking partners. And that’s okay.

If you’ve tried everything and your walks still feel like a circus act, maybe separate walks are the better route. Or stagger them, one in the morning, the other in the evening.

You’re not failing your dogs by walking them separately. You’re actually giving them what they need. And in the long run, that keeps everybody sane.

Also, if one dog is recovering from surgery or the other is a senior with arthritis, forcing them to match strides just isn’t fair. Walk smart, not just together.

Adjust As You Go

Some days, it’s smooth sailing. Other times, one dog decides the leash is a chew toy and the other has a meltdown over a squirrel. That’s life with dogs.

Don’t expect perfection. Expect progress. Even just a walk where nobody tripped over a leash is a win.

Try different routes. Mix up the times. Use treats to reward calm behavior. And maybe bring an extra poop bag, because with two dogs, you’re twice as likely to run out at the worst possible moment.

Celebrate The Little Wins

When your dogs finally walk side by side without zigzagging across your path, you’ll feel like you just unlocked a new level in a game. That moment where the leash tension disappears and you’re all just moving together, that’s gold.

The effort is worth it. You’ll notice they get along better. They burn energy. You get a bit of fresh air (and maybe some arm strength).

And hey, even if the walk isn’t picture perfect, you still showed up and gave them your time. That’s what counts most.

So if you’re staring at two dogs right now wondering how to even start this double-walking life, don’t sweat it. It gets easier. It gets better. And before you know it, you’ll be strutting down the street like a dog-walking champ.

What’s the wildest or funniest thing your dogs have done on a walk together?