Group Dog Walking

Whether you have a young puppy or a mature dog that’s a bit nervous or reactive around others, walking together is a great way to desensitise them to the presence of other dogs. (Obviously your dog doesn’t have to be nervous to join, every dog is welcome)

THE WAY IT WORKS:

• Walks are organised via Whatsapp by Alwyn.

• bring high value treats (their favourites, cooked sausage slices, cubes of burgers etc…)

• Walk your dog alone for at least 15 min to get the initial excitement out of them and get some pooping out of the way (ideally we don’t have to keep stopping while on the group walk)

• Put you dog back in the car and meet everyone without the dogs to make a plan

• tart walking in the same direction (most nervous dogs at the back)

RULES:

• Maximum 1 dog per person (unless your dogs are not reactive)

• Dogs stay on short leads (except maybe for very calm elderly dogs, and only if everyone is comfortable)

• DO NOT allow your dog to suddenly get close to the other dogs. This is all about GRADUALLY getting closer during the walks, and maybe even over the course of several walks.

• Pay close attention to the body language of your own dog(s) and the others. If yours is barking/nervous/excited please move further away until they calm down.

• All poops picked up (obviously)

LOCATIONS:

• Hillsborough Forest Park

• Castlewellan

• Black Mountain