Biggest thing for me is keeping the energy chill from the start. I don't walk dogs together unless I know they vibe well. If I sense tension, I separate or swap the lineup. I always watch for stiff bodies, staring, tails up and tight, or when one dog suddenly gets super still—usually means they're sizing something up. Also, if a dog starts licking their lips or yawning a lot, they're probably uncomfortable. If I see any of that, I redirect early—quick "let's go" and move them along. Distance fixes a lot before it escalates.
My best tip for preventing dog fights while walking a group of dogs is to maintain a calm, controlled environment and closely monitor each dog's body language. I pay attention to signs of tension, such as stiffening, raised hackles, or direct staring, which can indicate that a dog is feeling threatened or is about to react. If I notice these signs, I redirect the dog's attention by changing the pace, giving them a quick "leave it" command, or putting more space between the dogs. It's also essential to keep the group moving and avoid long pauses that might trigger a standoff. I always make sure to walk dogs with similar energy levels together, as mismatched temperaments can lead to conflict. By staying aware of their body language and proactively managing the situation, I've been able to prevent most incidents and keep the walk enjoyable for everyone.