How to handle 5 dogs?

To handle multiple dogs, separate them when they're learning new behaviors, at least when they’re learning the fundamentals like sit, down, or stay. Work with only one dog at a time and place the other dog(s) in a different room or in their crates. While you focus on the working dog, give the other dogs something to do, so they don’t fuss or feel resentful. Keep your training session short by making it something you can accomplish in less than 10 minutes. Once you’re finished with the first dog, swap them out for another dog. Repeat until all of your dogs have received their one-on-one training time. If separating the dogs isn't possible, use a leash or tether to keep them in the same room without interfering with each other. Either will prevent the dogs from interfering with each other or stealing each other’s treats. Tethers and leashes also allow you to control which dog is getting rewarded for a given behavior while training two dogs at once. Another approach is station training, where each dog has their own station or area to relax in while you work with one dog at a time. The dogs wait voluntarily at their station until you release them, which helps them learn patience and emotional self-control. Reward the dogs at their stations heavily and frequently for calmly waiting their turn. Rotate among the dogs so each one gets a chance to be “the center of attention.” Teach name recognition to help each individual dog respond to your cues, even when their housemates are around. Use your body language and make eye contact, and teach your dog to recognize their name, then use it before any cue. If you have a large group of dogs, it can also be beneficial to teach them a group name that means “everybody listen.”

To handle 5 dogs, have a Meet & Greet before committing to the stay. Successful Meet & Greets include: Meeting on neutral ground. Introduce dogs at a park or on the pavement outside the home so no one gets territorial. Dogs that seem to get along still need to be monitored to make sure nothing goes awry. To keep everything cool during feeding and playtime: Separate during feeding. Keep dogs apart during feeding to avoid any instances of food aggression. Make sure that each dog in the home gets some individual time and attention. Set up time during the day to give each dog individual time. Whether you’re training, playing, or just snuggling, each dog needs a little extra. Enlist the help of your guests. If they’re also dog people, have your guests give the dogs some love. It’ll help everyone de-stress and feel good! With these tips you’ll be safely and happily managing a multi-dog household–so you can relax and enjoy the holidays.