The Social and Behavioral Benefits of Group Walks
Comfy Critter pack posing at Centennial Park
Socialization is a big buzzword in the dog care world. What does it mean, how can you get your dog proper socialization, and how does it benefit them? As pack managers in our Pack Walks and Pack Play, we see the direct benefits of dog socialization in every work day. We have built a thorough on-boarding process to help set your dog up for success, and to make sure they have fun while getting socialization they need.
Disclaimer: Although we have lots of experience with dog behavior, we are not certified dog trainers, and any serious behavioral issues should be assessed by a trusted trainer.
What is socialization for dogs and why is it important?
Socialization is familiarizing your dog with the human and dog world. This includes indirect interaction (watching other animals or humans from afar), existing in public spaces (taking your dog to a store or brewery), as well as social interactions between two or more dogs. This type of interaction engages their brains and helps them learn how to coexist with other dogs. Giving your pup positive associations with other dogs is vital to their well being in the world. It will boost their confidence and help them feel calm in new situations.
Birdie and Dexter enjoying their Park Adventure at the beach
How can my dog get socialization?
The best way for your pup to get better at socializing is practice. A slow, calm introduction is key. Start with things like hanging out with a friend’s dog or observing other dogs in public. Slowly work up to things like going to a dog park or going on a pack walk. If you’re just starting out with your dog’s socialization, or if they are reactive, one-on-one with people and dogs you trust is going to be your best bet. Dogs may do better with some space between them at first, walking on leash in the same direction. As they start to settle into the walk, gradually bring them closer together. Dogs primarily communicate through body language, and just like learning any language, practice is important. Look for signs of calm body language before allowing them to interact directly. Patience is key, and sometimes you may need to take a break and try again later.
Comfy Critter pack walking in a nice line!
What are the Benefits of Pack Walks?
Regular Exercise
Regular exercise is important for your dogs well being, and has a direct impact on your dog’s behavior. Frequent walks and play can help stimulate and tire them out, leading to a calmer demeanor. Walking and playing with other pups is even better! Dogs who are under-stimulated or bored may destroy things in the home, or even act out towards other dogs. With a trip in the car, a different and engaging place to explore, lots of scents to investigate, and time spent with other dog friends, our pack walks are very stimulating. Our clients often report that their pups are snoozing happily shortly after they return!
Off leash pack play at a Sniff Spot yard
Help with Reactivity
Socialization practice paired with positive reinforcement can help your dog with reactivity. A small way you may do this every day is treating your dog when they calmly pass another on a walk. Nate and I take our young dog Birdie to sit outside at dog parks and observe. We give her treats when she watches without barking, when she relaxes, and when she visually checks in with us. Every dog is different and the type of reactivity they may exhibit can have a wide range. Set your dog up for success by starting with more distance, taking small steps, and providing them with lots of treats and breaks.
Birdie settled outside Magnolia Manor
Once your pup is ready for more direct interaction, the controlled setting of a pack walk is a great way to get this practice. We have had many dogs in our pack walks who tend to be reactive on leash with their owners and do great walking in the group.
Structure
Walking with other dogs is a great way for your pup to practice socializing. The structure of a walk with the focus of other dogs in the group can be beneficial for dogs who may be more anxious, shy, or reactive on leash. This way they are focused on an activity and pay more attention to the dogs in their direct proximity that they have previously met and are comfortable around. Seeing their pals calmly passing other dogs reinforces that behavior. Regular pack walks can definitely boost your pup’s confidence!
Learning from Others
Dogs are social animals and learn a lot by watching and mirroring each other. Dogs who spend more structured time with other pups will be more equipped to communicate with dogs in their daily lives. It’s a great idea to familiarize yourself with basic dog body language so you can assess how your pup is doing in their interactions. This is especially true for puppies or young dogs, and exposing them to older dogs with good behavior can help them learn good habits. Pack activities are also a great time to practice simple training and can help your pup learn by example. For instance, we like to reinforce when the pack pups visually check in with us, have them practice “sit” for photos, and always encourage good leash manners since they are often sharing a split lead.
How do Comfy Critter Pack Walks work?
Comfy Critter pack enjoying a break at Kinnear Park
Pack Walks are held on Wednesdays and Fridays with pickups starting at 10 AM. Our pack walks are hour-long walks with 2 or more pups. We max out at 6 dogs, so the pack stays manageable and the car doesn't get too crowded. We take great care to make sure the pups in our pack will work well together.
We start with a couple of solo walks to get to know your dog and see how they are on leash by themselves. After that, we have our dog Birdie walk with them once or twice. This step gives us a good idea of how they behave meeting another dog and walking with them. Next, we will bring a small pack to your neighborhood for an hour long walk. We may do a couple pack walks in your neighborhood to familiarize your dog with other pack members. At that point we will give them some practice in the car with other dogs after they have walked together. If all goes well, then they are cleared to join us on an official pack walk! Pack Walks may not be right for every dog, but the ones who do well absolutely love it. We love seeing how excited they are to hop in the car!
What is Comfy Critter Pack Play?
Pack Play gals Luna, Birdie, and Winnie
Once your pup attends pack walks with regularity and gets to know the pack, they are welcome to join our off leash play time which we call Pack Play. Pack Play takes place on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. We use the Sniff Spot and Rome apps to rent private yards where the pups can play for the hour. We opt to rent private yards to avoid all the unknowns of public dog parks. This way the pups are in a safe, fenced yard with dogs they already know. They will love playing fetch, doing recall games, and running around together. This option is great for pups with lots of energy to run!
Are there other options if Pack Services aren’t the right fit for my dog?
Yes! Park Adventures, which are hour-long park trips with a single pup or all pups in your household, with the option for Birdie to join if they get along well. This option allows for a fun outing with a bit more space from other pups. We also offer drop-in solo walks in your neighborhood with options for 20, 30, or 40 minute visits. These are great for any dog! We have experience walking reactive dogs and love them just as much as the most social dogs we visit. All dogs deserve fun, exercise, and socialization, and we are happy to provide and meet your dog where they’re at.
Help your dog become more social and well-behaved! Pack walks are a great way for your pup to develop healthy social skills, reduce behavioral issues, and enjoy some exercise with their friends. Comfy Critter pack walks provide a safe, structured environment for dogs to interact and thrive.
Ready to see the benefits for yourself? Get started with us today and give your dog the chance to make new friends while enjoying a fun outdoor adventure!
