When your dog is ready to go for walks closer to other dogs, choose your location and the dogs you walk with wisely.

First walk in the area alone or with only your dog so you are aware of potential hazards.

When you go out to walk with another dog make sure you are familiar with your dog’s body language and note whether they are showing comfort or concern. You will also need to watch the other dog.

Take things at your dog’s pace - you may not get to the point of walking with the other dog in your outing but that is ok. Ensuring your dog has a good experience matters more than how much progress you make - and you’ll make quicker progress overall if you ensure your dog is enjoying themselves.

Let your dog engage in activities they enjoy such as sniffing, training, or checking in with you and use their favorite reinforcers when out with new dogs. If this is food, be sure to carry more than you think you need so you don’t run out. Always deliver the reinforcement so that your dog turns away from the other dog to get it. This will prevent them feeling any pressure to move closer to the other dog to get their reward.

Your dog’s experience begins as soon as you arrive in the car or step outside of your house. Plan with the other person ahead of time to walk in a parallel fashion or with one dog following the other, giving each other plenty of space. It is much easier to follow than to be followed so allow the dog who is helping to lead the way. Wide open spaces like fields and car parks or quiet roads are great options for parallel walking. Allow your dog to choose the distance and be careful not to accidentally lead them closer to the other dog.

You can use partial barriers in the environment, such as chain link fences, to provide an extra layer of safety, but don’t be tempted to rush the process and get too close too quickly.

Throughout, watch for your dog being able to look away from the other dog and engage in activities they enjoy. You want them to see, hear and smell the dog while remaining unconcerned.

The goal is for both dogs to be neutral in each other's presence. It is ok if they choose not to interact with each other or play - after all not all dogs want close social contact. If you follow these steps carefully you may soon find your dog enjoys walking with others.