How do I walk two dogs at once?
On how two walk two dogs at the same time without getting tangled the whole way?
5 Answers
I encourage you to avoid flexi-lead leashes. Tangling is pretty much inevitable, but if you have all of the dogs on a 6' leash it is easy to untangle. I recommend you remove the poop bag holders as those can complicate the de-tangling process. Instead, put some poop bags in your back pocket or carry a treat pouch. Simple solution to a problem we all have!
I also avoid flexi leashes. While I have used dual lead adapters when pet-parents bring for their two dogs, I often find one dog is physically much stronger and pulls the other dog sometimes rather abruptly (which is harder for me to prevent). My preference is using different colors, widths, and textures (flat, rope-like, and a soft "Laughing Leash") leashes for the dogs.
The device for walking multiple dogs with a single leash is also called a "coupler." They come in various lengths and with different hardware capabilities (like a swivel bolt). Usually the leads for the individual dogs might only be 12" long. Dogs do have to get used to walking that close to others. If you are going to tether one dog to your waist, experts will tell you to attach the pulling dog because your full body is better able to withstand the pulling than your arms.
If the dogs are of similar size/temperament, a dual lead adapter is really handy. It's a splitter that clips onto the end of the leash (so the leash is now shaped like a Y with you at the base and the two dogs at the tips). But multiple leads like Amber suggested works well, too, especially as the dogs get used to walking together as a group. For my own dogs, I have the lead for my good walker clipped to my belt loop, and hold onto the leash for the puller. This lets me give her my full attention and I can immediately react to changes in her movement without worrying about affecting the leash for the other dog. There's very little tangling with the two of them because they're so used to the arrangement. There's always an adjustment period when adding a new dog to the mix, though.
Thank you for the advice, It was great help!
I have a leash that works great. It is called the 'Sidecar Leash'. Works with either regular or retractable leashes. You can email me for more info... mimes2@verizon.net Please put Sidecar Leash in the subject line (so I will know you are not spam). Mary - Rover sitter since 2012.