My partner and I recently adopted two dogs (M & F, ~50lbs each) about four and six weeks ago. We’ve had great success with 1:1 training using standard methods (reversing direction, stop-until-slack, high-value treats). Around the neighborhood, they are becoming "pro" walkers.
The Problem: The "Lead Dog" Syndrome This completely falls apart when we hike together. We are avid hikers, and on single-file trails (95% of them), the dog in the back becomes obsessed with being in front.
- The behavior: Whichever dog is in the back will pull, lunge, and whine the entire time.
- What fails: Standard 1:1 techniques have zero impact here. Treats are ignored. Reversing direction works until we turn back around, then the "race" resumes immediately.
- The "Fake Calm": Today we tried a "stop every step" approach for two hours. The female dog eventually learned to pretend to be calm just to get the "OK," at which point she’d launch like a rocket to try and overtake the lead dog.
It feels like the presence of the other dog creates a competitive drive that overrides their training. Most resources cover one person walking two dogs, but we can't find much on two people walking two dogs in a line.
Right now, our "family" recreation is pretty miserable. Does anyone have tips for breaking this specific "must-be-first" mindset or drills for group hiking dynamics?
submitted by /u/mrnoll
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