If you own a dog, you know how important regular walks can be for your furry friend’s health and happiness. However, when it comes to dog walking, one question often worries pet owners: Is it better to choose group or private walks for your dog?

Although both private and group dog walks have their benefits, the best choice depends on your dog’s needs, personality, and lifestyle. This article will walk you through everything you need about group vs. private dog walks, including which is best for your furry friend.

What Are Group Dog Walks?

Group dog walks involve a professional dog walker taking multiple dogs for a walk simultaneously.

A group can consist of 3 to 6 dogs or more, and the strolls typically last 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the service. Group walks are becoming increasingly popular as they allow dogs to socialize and exercise at the same time. However, they may not always be suitable for every dog. 

Benefits of Group Dog Walks

Group walks are a great option for dogs that meet specific criteria. Since dogs are naturally pack animals, they tend to learn from each other. Walking in a group can help reinforce positive behaviors, such as encouraging a canine that usually lags when walking alone to keep up. 

Additionally, the pack mentality provides the motivation they need, which can also improve their solo walks with their owners. Not to mention, walking in a group gives dogs a good workout, introduces them to different breeds, and lets them benefit from the guidance of an experienced dog walker.

Still unsure? Here are a few major benefits of group dog walks.

Socialization

One of the biggest benefits of group dog walks is the chance for your dog to socialize with other dogs.

Like people, dogs need social interactions to learn how to behave around others. On a group walk, your dog can meet other dogs of different sizes, breeds, and personalities. This helps them learn good manners and feel more comfortable in various situations.

Regular socialization can help reduce dogs’ fear or aggression. Canines participating in group walks better understand dog body language and improve their ability to interact positively. For shy or anxious dogs, group walks can gently build their confidence over time.

Mental Stimulation

Group dog walks offer much more than physical exercise, as being around other dogs provides mental stimulation. Your dog will experience new smells, sounds, and sights, all of which keep their brain engaged. 

Interacting with different dogs adds another layer of excitement, as each walk brings new dynamics and challenges for your dog to navigate. This mental workout helps tire them out, which can reduce boredom and destructive behavior at home. 

A tired dog is often a happy dog, and group walks provide the mental enrichment they need to stay sharp and relaxed.

Physical Exercise

According to one report, 59% of dogs are either obese or overweight. One major reason is that they lack exercise.  

Exercise is crucial for a dog’s health, and group walks are a fantastic way to keep them active. Walking alongside other pups can motivate your dog to stay engaged and keep moving. Dogs tend to feed off each other’s energy, making group walks lively and exciting.

This can help them burn off more energy than solo walks, which is especially important for high-energy breeds. Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight, supports joint health, and improves overall fitness. A well-exercised dog is less likely to develop health issues like obesity or joint problems later in life. 

Improved Behavior

When canines are part of a group, they often observe how other dogs behave and can learn from them. Group walks reinforce good behavior, such as walking calmly on a leash, not pulling, and staying focused. Plus, regular exposure to other dogs helps them control their impulses and learn patience.

The strolls also encourage positive habits like waiting their turn, staying calm around distractions, and following the pace of the walk. These skills can carry over into daily life, making your dog more manageable and well-behaved.

Cost-Effective

Since the dog walker handles multiple dogs simultaneously, group walks are more affordable than private walks. This can be a good option if you’re on a budget but still want to ensure your dog gets the necessary exercise.

Drawbacks of Group Walks 

Although group dog walks provide numerous benefits, they aren’t for every dog. 

Here are a few potential downsides:

• Limited Attention: When handling multiple dogs, a dog walker may struggle to cater to your dog’s specific requirements. If your dog needs more attention or has behavioral problems, they may not receive adequate care in a group environment.
• Different Energy Levels: Not every pup in the group will have the same energy or fitness level. If your dog is very energetic, they might not get enough exercise if the group walks slower. Conversely, a less active canine might struggle to keep up with a more energetic group.
• Safety Concerns: There is a greater chance of accidents in a group setting, whether from fights between dogs or getting tangled in leashes. A responsible dog walker should be able to manage these situations, but it’s something to keep in mind.
• Training Differences: Dogs in group walks may have different levels of training. If one dog pulls on the leash or doesn’t respond to commands, it can affect the whole group.

 

What Are Private Dog Walks?  

Private dog walks involve walking your dog one-on-one with a professional walker.

In this case, the walker focuses solely on your dog during the walk, tailoring the pace, route, and activities to your dog’s specific needs. Private dog walks can take place anywhere from your neighborhood or a favorite park. 

Benefits of Private Dog Walks 

Private walks are suitable for all types of dogs.

They aren’t just for pups with reactivity issues; they’re also perfect for owners who want their dogs to walk in a more structured way. On the other hand, private walks can also offer canines the freedom to explore, sniff, and wander at their own pace. Without further ado, here are some key benefits of private dog walks:

Personalized Attention

One standout feature of a private dog walk is your dog’s one-on-one time with the walker.

In a group setting, the walker has to divide their attention between several dogs, but your dog is the star on a private walk! This means the walker can focus on your dog’s specific needs, such as getting enough exercise, following any training commands, or even giving them a little extra affection.

Reduced Stress and Anxiety

Not all dogs are social butterflies. Some may feel anxious or stressed when walking with other dogs. In fact, 43% of dogs experience anxiety with other dogs. 

Private walks are ideal for dogs who may feel overwhelmed in crowded situations or shy around other animals. Without the pressure of being around unfamiliar dogs, your pet can relax and enjoy their walk at their own pace.

Custom Walking Pace

Every dog is different regarding how fast or slow they like to walk. On a private dog walk, the pace can be adjusted to match your dog’s energy level. 

If your dog is older or has health issues, they may need to walk more slowly and take breaks. On the contrary, if your canine is full of energy and loves to run, a private walk allows them to move at their speed without holding anyone else back.

Safer Environment

During group walks, it’s harder to control the behavior of multiple dogs – especially if they don’t get along. A private dog walk eliminates the risk of potential conflicts with other dogs. 

This is especially important if your dog is reactive or aggressive toward other animals. With fewer distractions and no other dogs around, the walker can keep a closer eye on your dog’s surroundings and ensure a safer, more controlled environment.

Tailored Exercise and Routine

Some pups need more than just a casual walk around the block. They might benefit from extra training, mental stimulation, or specific types of exercise. 

On a private walk, the walker can cater to your dog’s unique routine. Whether it’s playing fetch, practicing commands, or visiting your dog’s favorite park, private walks allow for a more engaging experience that matches your dog’s preferences.

Drawbacks of Private Walks 

Like group walks, private dog walks may not be the perfect solution for every dog. 

Here are a few potential drawbacks:

• Higher Cost: Since private dog walks require the walker’s full attention and time, they tend to be more expensive than group walks. This may be a drawback for pet owners on a tight budget.
• Limited Socialization: Without other dogs around, your dog may miss out on valuable socialization opportunities. This can be an issue, especially for puppies and younger dogs who need to interact with others to learn good social behaviors.
• Less Variety: Private walks offer personalized routes, but your dog may not get the same stimulation level as they would in a group setting. The absence of other dogs might make the walk less exciting for some dogs.
• Limited Time: Some private walks may be shorter than group walks, especially if the walker manages multiple dogs daily. This could limit the amount of exercise your dog gets, depending on their needs.

How to Choose Between Group and Private Walks 

Now that we’ve outlined the pros and cons of both group and private walks, how do you decide which is best for your dog? Here’s a list of factors to consider to make the right choice for your pup.

Your Dog’s Personality

Is your dog social and friendly? Or is it shy and nervous around others? A group walk could be the perfect fit for your pup if it is friendly, loves playing with other dogs, and thrives in social situations. However, dogs that are nervous, shy, or easily overwhelmed by other canines may do better in a private setting where they can walk at their own pace and in a calm environment.

Your Dog’s Health

If your dog has any medical conditions, a private walk may be better to ensure they get the right amount of exercise without overdoing it. Dogs with good health and high energy – especially puppies – can benefit from group walks for the added excitement.

Your Dog’s Training Level

A well-trained dog can handle the distractions of a group walk, while a dog that pulls or reacts to other dogs might do better in a private, controlled environment.

Your Budget

Group walks are generally more affordable, so if you’re on a tight budget, they can provide a cost-effective way to keep your dog active. However, if your dog needs special attention, the higher cost of private walks may be worth it.

Can You Mix Group and Private Walks?

For some dogs, a blend of both group and private walks might be the best solution. For example, you could schedule group walks a few times a week to give your dog a chance to socialize while also arranging private walks on other days for more focused attention or training.

Conclusion 

So, which is better: group or private dog walks? The answer varies based on your dog’s unique needs and personality. Group walks offer great socialization, excitement, and affordability, while private walks provide individualized attention, training, and comfort for dogs that need a quieter experience.

Knowing your dog’s temperament, health, and preferences will help you make the right choice. Whether you choose group or private walks, the most important thing is that your dog gets regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.

Eventually, the best walk is the one that meets your dog’s needs – so they can enjoy every step. Looking for a reliable private or group dog walking service? Choose MDPupScouts. They provide a slew of services—such as Private Walks and Pack Dog Walking—that give your pup the safe and enjoyable outing it deserves. 

Contact us today to schedule a perfect private or group walk for your pup!