Dogs are America's most popular pets. Developing healthy behavior in canines can deepen the bonds that exist between dogs and their humans and enhance the overall pet experience.

Healthy dog behavior seems to revolve around several factors, not the least of which are genetics, owner input, external stimuli and training.

"I think the biggest goal is to teach dogs how to be calm around distractions and some of their triggers," said Courtney Ducey, the administrator of the Facebook page Lancaster PA Dogs, who has been training dogs for 10 years. "It's about teaching dogs how to interact with owners. It can be difficult for a dog that's fearful or has anxiety, just teaching them how to engage with their owners. (The Facebook page) also shows owners that they aren't alone."

"Sometimes you can feel you're the only person in the world who has a dog that acts that way," continued Ducey. "It helps create a sense of community. Your dog may be acting a certain way, but it's totally natural."

Ducey created Lancaster PA Dogs in 2021 as a networking tool for dog owners in Lancaster County and as a way to answer questions, address needs and generally supply support for local canine enthusiasts. But from the group has sprung the free service community pack walks, sort of a therapeutic, educational and growing experience for owners with dogs of all breeds, demeanors and developmental traits.

"I think (the relationship between humans and dogs) is about the companionship," said Ducey. "Dogs don't judge you. You can be yourself around your dog. You can mess up, and your dog loves you unconditionally. People get dogs for so many reasons, but I think the thing they're attracted to is unconditional love."

"Dogs are very resilient, and they live in the moment," she added. "You can always change your relationship with your dog."

The community pack walks are designed for dogs and their owners. Ducey organizes and leads them and offers basic training tips during the exercise.

Initially introduced in April of 2024, the community pack walks are staged once a month, weather permitting.

"It's a mix of people who have dogs and who want to work with dogs in a place that's safe," said Ducey, a resident of Manheim Township. "When they come, we build a good rapport, and I love that. People get dogs to spend time with their dogs. People build relationships with each other when they're on these walks."

Typically, about eight to 11 owners and their dogs navigate the hourlong community pack walks. The group walks on paths and trails in several locations in the county.

"We go all over (Lancaster County)," said Ducey. "All of it is good because we're getting out in nature and seeing different parts of the county. You're also bonding with your dog. For people who have dogs with behavioral issues, it's important to make sure they're getting exercise. Getting your dog properly fulfilled is hard. When your dog is reacting to everything outside, it's hard to walk your dog."

With 4,500 members from all parts of the county, Lancaster PA Dogs has become the local go-to source for everything and anything about dogs. Among the group's most popular topics are grooming, dog sitting, service dogs, walking, photography and drawing, missing pets, volunteering, nutrition and training.

"I really wanted to create something for the community," said Ducey. "It's kind of like a catchall group. Sometimes there's a lot of traction in that group; sometimes there's not. But I think it's a good resource. I think there's so much strength in community."

For additional information, search for "Lancaster PA Dogs" on Facebook.