Walk This Way: Why Group Dog Walks Are the Best Thing Since Sliced Treats!

What’s better than a lovely stroll with your dog? A stroll with a whole pack of wagging tails and friendly humans!

Group dog walks are popping up in parks, woodlands, and villages everywhere — and for good reason. Whether you're trying to improve your dog's lead manners, boost their social skills, or simply want to enjoy the great outdoors with like-minded people, group walks tick all the boxes (and then some).

So clip on that lead, grab your walking boots, and let’s explore why group dog walks are the ultimate walkies upgrade.

1. Better Lead Manners (Without the Boredom)

Walking with others helps dogs naturally fall into rhythm, especially when there's a pack structure to follow. Many dogs learn not to pull because:

• They don’t want to fall behind the fun.

• They're watching how other calm dogs behave.

• You’re moving steadily and consistently (instead of zig-zagging between lampposts and squirrels!).

It's an easy and effective way to reinforce polite walking without it feeling like a training drill.

2. Socialisation Without Overwhelm

Group walks are a golden opportunity for your dog to learn:

• How to walk near other dogs without lunging or barking.

• That not every dog is a playmate — and that’s OK!

• How to stay calm and focused, even when surrounded by exciting smells, tails, and sounds.

Because the dogs are walking in the same direction, side-by-side, social pressure is reduced, making it a perfect environment for nervous or overexcited dogs to practice calm behavior.

3. You’re Not Just Walking a Dog – You’re Joining a Community

Let’s face it, being a dog owner can sometimes feel a little isolating (especially on rainy days or when your dog’s barking at a leaf again 😅).

Group dog walks connect you with:

• Other owners going through the same training challenges.

• Friendly faces who won’t judge your treat pouch situation.

• A support system that often turns into real friendships.

4. It Turns a Basic Walk into an Adventure

Routine walks can get dull for dogs and humans alike. Group walks:

• Offer new locations and routes.

• Introduce your dog to new scents, surfaces, and experiences.

• Create a sense of purpose and fun — not just “another lap around the block.”

You’ll likely find that your dog is more mentally and physically fulfilled after a group walk than a solo one!

Tips for Your First Group Dog Walk

✔️ Bring plenty of treats (reward the good stuff!)

✔️ Keep your dog on a lead

✔️ Give space – not every dog likes being sniffed mid-stride

✔️ Don’t be afraid to hang back or step aside if your dog needs a moment

✔️ Pack water, poo bags, and a sense of humour

Bonus tip: Let the organiser know in advance if your dog is shy, nervous, or in training — most group walks are super supportive and happy to help you settle in.

🌈 Final Thoughts: Walk Together, Wag Forever

Group dog walks are more than just exercise — they’re a chance to grow, bond, learn, and laugh (and yes, there will probably be a few tangled leads along the way).

So whether your pup is a seasoned social butterfly or still learning the ropes, walking with a pack is a brilliant way to make walkies more enriching, rewarding, and FUN.

Want to join a local group walk? Good news Loopypaws offers FREE group walks

monthly follow on Facebook to find the next one