How to Train Multiple Dogs at the Same Time

Training multiple dogs is not that different from training one dog. The important thing to remember when training multiple dogs, is that the dogs still need individual training time for the first few months. Work with each dog individually to establish proper training habits. From there, you can work with the dogs in groups to reinforce training or to add complex training to their basic training knowledge. Always have patience, and never strike a dog during training sessions or for any other reason.

Instructions

    • 1

      Keep all of the dogs together in one large space. This allows the dogs to get to know one another, but it also allows them to have their own personal space. Dogs may get into conflicts before they establish the pack order, but they will eventually find their place together.

    • 2

      Establish yourself as the dominate authority. Do not allow the dogs to engage in behavior that you disapprove of. Encourage good behavior with praise, and speak in a firm voice to express your disappointment in a misbehaving dog.

    • 3

      Set a strict feeding routine for all of the dogs. Give each dog its own bowl. Allow the dogs only to eat out of their own bowls. Serve the food at the same time each day to establish a routine with the dogs.

    • 4

      Train the dogs to sit and wait for the food until you give the eat command. Tell the dogs to sit. Pour the food into the bowls on a counter. Lower the food bowl and set it in front of the dog. If they get up, remove the bowl and tell the dogs to sit again. Do not allow the dogs to eat without a command by you.

    • 5

      Start by training each dog individually. Set aside a quite place where you can work with each dog. Use positive reinforcement to teach the dogs basic commands. Keep the training sessions to less than 15 minutes for the first few months. After the dogs have mastered the basic commands, you can train the dogs together to reinforce commands.

    • 6

      Work with a fast-learning dog and a slow-learning dog together. The slow-learning dog will mimic the actions of the other dog.