Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
Is your dog struggling on group walks? Maybe they seem overwhelmed, get overexcited, or struggle to get along with other dogs. You are not alone. Group dog walks sound convenient, but they’re not always the best fit for every dog.
Let me tell you about Barney, a lovely rescue who joined me a few months ago. His owner had tried several group dog walkers, but Barney always came home stressed and over-aroused. He started to dread walks altogether. Since switching to one-to-one walks with me, he’s a different dog. Calmer. Happier. More confident. It’s a change that’s not just noticeable—it’s life-changing.
What Are Group Dog Walks — And How Do They Work?
Group dog walks involve multiple dogs walking together under the supervision of one dog walker. In many cases, that means 4–6 dogs being picked up in a van, walked together at a park or green space, then returned home. It sounds efficient, but this model has several drawbacks:
- Dogs are often crated during transport.
- Energy levels and personalities vary widely.
- Not all walkers assess compatibility thoroughly.
- Dogs often need to wait for pick-ups and drop-offs.
On the surface, group walks might seem like a social and affordable option. But it’s one-size-fits-all.
Why Group Dog Walks Aren’t Suitable for Every Dog
Dogs are individuals. Their needs differ based on age, health, temperament, and past experiences. Here’s how dogs struggle in group settings.
Nervous Dogs
Nervous dogs can feel overwhelmed by:
- Loud noises from transport vans
- Unfamiliar dogs in close proximity
- Busy parks or unpredictable group dynamics
These dogs often need quiet environments and consistent routines to feel safe. Group walks can heighten their anxiety and lead to long-term stress.
Reactive or Over-Aroused Dogs
A reactive dog may bark, lunge, or snap—not out of aggression, but fear or overstimulation. Common triggers include:
- Sudden movements
- Fast-approaching dogs
- Noisy or chaotic environments
In a group walk, one over-aroused dog can create a domino effect, setting off the others. Managing multiple dogs in this situation can be risky.
Puppies and Adolescents
Young dogs are still learning about the world. They’re excitable and often lack impulse control. In a group setting, they may:
- Mimic bad habits from other dogs
- Ignore basic training cues
- Become overstimulated and harder to settle
These dogs benefit more from focused, one-to-one training walks where structure is the priority.
Elderly or Disabled Dogs
Older dogs may have arthritis, reduced stamina, or sensory loss. In a group setting, they might:
- Struggle to keep up
- Be knocked over during play
- Become withdrawn or uncomfortable
They need slow-paced, gentle walks tailored to their comfort levels.
Risks of Group Dog Walks You Might Not Have Considered
Even when well-run, group walks come with risks. Here are some things many owners overlook:
Transport Stress
Most group walkers use vans. Dogs may be crated for long periods, surrounded by barking, panting, and movement. For some dogs, this is deeply stressful.
Lack of Supervision
It’s not possible to watch 4–6 dogs as closely as you can watch 1. That means early signs of:
- Illness
- Overheating
- Fear or stress
- Tension between dogs
…can be missed.
Personality Clashes
Dogs, like people, don’t get along. A clash between two dogs can lead to fights, injuries, or the likelihood of long-term behavioural issues.
Shared Resources
If dogs share water bowls or toys, there’s a risk of:
- Spread of infections (e.g. kennel cough, parasites)
- Resource guarding or possessiveness
Inappropriate Exercise
Some dogs need long runs. Others can only manage gentle strolls. In a group, compromise is inevitable—often at your dog’s expense.
Signs Your Dog May Be Struggling in a Group Setting
Dogs can’t tell us what they are feeling in the same way as humans; however, they communicate through body language, and their behaviour will often provide signs.
Here’s what I suggest watching for if your dog is on group walks:
- They resist going out for walks
- They hide, tremble, or act nervously around the walker
- They come home hyper or unsettled
- They sleep excessively after walks (from mental overload)
- Their reactivity has increased
- They’re clingy or withdrawn
- You notice new toileting or destructive behaviours
Even subtle changes can mean your dog is under too much pressure.
Why One-to-One Walks Are a Safer, More Effective Alternative
Switching to solo walks can feel like a big step, but it often transforms a dog’s mental being. Here’s what your dog gains:
- Tailored pace and route: I match the walk to your dog’s personality and mood.
- Individual attention: I can notice early signs of stress, illness, or improvement.
- No waiting around: Walks start and end at your home, no crating, no waiting.
- Better behaviour: Focused, calm walks help reinforce good habits and reduce unwanted ones.
- Greater safety: No risk of fights, rough play, or being overwhelmed by other dogs.
For many of my clients, the shift from group to one-to-one walks has brought relief for both dog and owner. What Makes a Trusted Dog Walker?
Not all dog walkers are the same. Here’s what I believe you should look for, especially if your dog has specific needs.
First Aid Trained
If a dog cuts a paw, chokes, or overheats, a walker must act fast. I’ve had pet first aid training to make sure I know what to do in an emergency.
No Van Dog Walking
I walk locally, starting from your front door. No vans, no crates, and no stressful pick-up routines. Your dog gets out for their walk straight away, in a familiar area.
Experience with Nervous and Reactive Dogs
Having owned rescue dogs since I was 18 (so that is umm … over 30 plus years), I’ve had experience with
- Dogs adopted from overseas
- Dogs recovering from trauma
- Over-aroused and leash-reactive dogs
Understanding canine body language and behaviour helps me keep your dog calm, safe, and supported.
Communication and Consistency
I keep you updated after every walk. If I notice a behaviour change, I’ll let you know. You’re not left guessing.
What If My Dog Needs Socialisation?
This is one of the biggest myths around group walks: that they’re for socialisation.
But real socialisation isn’t about being around other dogs. It’s helping your dog feel calm and confident in a variety of environments.
For many dogs, forced exposure to large groups can cause more harm than good. Proper socialisation means:
- Controlled, positive introductions to dogs and people
- Observing body language and creating space when needed
On a one-to-one walk, I can safely introduce your dog to others (if appropriate) in a calm, managed way—never forced.
Alternatives to Group Dog Walks
If group walks don’t work for you and your dog, there are plenty of other ways to meet their needs.
Solo Walks
These are perfect for dogs that need calm, structure, or focused attention.
Enrichment Visits
For dogs that need mental stimulation, I can offer home visits with games, sniffy walks, or puzzle feeders.
Training Walks
I can incorporate basic training (e.g. loose lead walking, recall games) into our time together to reinforce good habits.
House Sitting
If you’re away and your dog struggles with change, I offer overnight stays so your dog can remain in their own home and routine.
FAQ: Group Dog Walks
Are group dog walks good for socialising my dog?
Not always. True socialisation happens through calm, positive experiences. Forced group settings can actually create fear or reactivity.
What if my dog doesn’t interact with others during group walks?
That group’s walk may not be right. Solo walks allow your dog to decompress, relax, and enjoy their time outdoors.
Can nervous or reactive dogs still enjoy group dog walks?
Most genuinely thrive with one-to-one attention, tailored routes, and predictable routines.
Every Dog Deserves the Right Walk
Your dog is unique. They deserve a walking routine that respects their needs, not one that forces them to fit in.
If you’re the one walking your dog—and whether the setup truly suits them—now’s the time to reflect.
I specialise in one-to-one, non-van, dog walking across Finchley, Muswell Hill, and surrounding areas. Whether your dog is shy, boisterous, reactive, or needs space, I’d love to help.
Let’s discuss how we can make your dog’s life better, safer, and more enjoyable.