Is your Dog ready for group Walks?

There’s nothing better than the peace of mind that comes from having a trusted dog walker take your dog out while you’re at work. Group walks can be a fantastic way for dogs to socialise, exercise, and burn off energy, but a little preparation goes a long way to ensure they enjoy the experience.

As a dog walker and trainer, I want to share the truth behind the profession, beyond the cute Instagram moments and wagging tails. Dog walking can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s not as simple as grabbing a leash and heading out. It takes planning, patience, and a lot of hard work to turn this passion into a modest income.

From managing multiple dogs with different temperaments to handling unpredictable weather and scheduling challenges, there’s a lot that goes into making this job work.

If your dog isn’t able to join group walks, the cost of their walk will naturally be higher, and here’s why. When I can take four compatible dogs out together, the price per dog is lower because the walk is more efficient. For example, if each dog pays £15 for an hour-long walk, that’s £60 total. But the reality is that the entire process, picking up, walking, and dropping off, takes about two hours. That means the gross income is £30 per hour.

Now, factor in fuel costs, wear and tear on the van, and other expenses, and the net income drops to around £15 per hour, just above minimum wage. This is why solo walks, which require the same time and travel but only one dog, cost significantly more. Quite simply, the more dogs I can walk together, the more efficient the service becomes, and the price reflects that.

So, is your dog ready for group walks?

Dog neutrality is an essential skill for group walks. It means your dog can remain calm and composed around other dogs, without overreacting, pulling, barking, or trying to dominate. A neutral dog doesn’t need to be best friends with every pup they meet; they simply need to coexist peacefully.

Reliable recall means your dog will come back to you immediately when called, no matter what distractions are around. This skill is crucial for safety and for enjoying stress-free walks, especially in public spaces or during group walks.

Comfortable with Obedience. Before joining group walks, your dog should be comfortable with basic obedience. This means they can follow simple commands like sit, stay, leave it, and heel, even when there are distractions such as other dogs, people, or exciting smells.

Obedience isn’t about perfection; it’s about safety and harmony. A dog that listens well helps prevent conflicts, keeps the group moving smoothly, and ensures everyone enjoys the walk.

If your dog has the qualities we’ve discussed, calm, well-mannered, neutral around other dogs, reliable recall, and comfortable with basic obedience, then I’d love to hear from you! Group walks are a fantastic way for dogs to socialise and exercise.

If your dog isn’t quite there yet, don’t worry. Get in touch, and I can help train them to develop these skills so they’re ready to join the fun safely and confidently.