One Dog Barks? One Dog Is A Social Butterfly?

When you live with multiple dogs, in a suburban area where walks are done, it's important to keep in mind the different personalities of each dog.

If one dog is reactive to stimuli outside, whether other dogs or people or cars, etc., consider walking that dog by himself. That will allow you to do what's necessary to avoid triggering him.

When multiple dogs get walked together and one of them is reactive, it's not fair to that dog.

For example: you have one super social dog who enjoys stopping to greet other dogs or people and the other one doesn't. The other one is distressed and barking the entire time.

It's in your reactive dog's best interest to do separate walks or to find a location where he can feel safe.

It's not always convenient to walk dogs separately. I get that.

Consider indoor enrichment for the reactive dog. Walks are not beneficial for him if it means he's going to be triggered repeatedly.

Consider once a week or every two weeks, finding a safe area where they both can run/walk. Perhaps a friend's backyard or field? Perhaps a rental space. There are apps where you can rent dog safe spaces for reasonable fees.

If you live with a partner, consider one person walking the social bunny (or bunnies) and the other walking the reactive dog somewhere safe.

Walk together, and when you spot a potential trigger, walk away with the second dog and play some games out of sight.

A qualified trainer can you find solutions that work for you and your specific situation.

Continuing to walk your dog who is barking and scanning the environment is not enjoyable for either of you.