Walking your dog at night

In autumn and winter, daylight hours get shorter and nights get longer. And even after daylight savings time kicks into gear, it has to get dark sometimes. There’s often no avoiding it: sometimes you have to walk your dog at night.

And unless you have a service dog, you must see, hear, and be responsive to threats. That task becomes all the more demanding in the dark. And other people will have a harder time seeing you as well.

At night, the threat level from joggers, cyclists, and drivers ticks up dramatically. As if that’s not enough, nocturnal predators threaten many areas of the UK.

But enough with the doom and gloom already. You'll likely face no issues walking your dog at night, but you should still prepare. We're here to help.

Nighttime challenges

This part may seem pretty obvious, but we’ll spell it out anyway: the evening is dangerous for your pup because, well, it’s dark.

It’s harder to see where you’re going

Nighttime walks may present unique hazards such as uneven terrain, obstacles, or wildlife encounters. Be vigilant and watch out for potential dangers along your walking route. Avoid areas with poor lighting, heavy traffic, or known safety concerns.

It’s hard for others to spot you and your dog

This is arguably an even bigger problem. For example, when a jogger can’t see you and your dog, that jogger might run straight into the both of you. Or a cyclist might run over you.

You get the point. At night, fast-moving threats might not register your existence — and even if they do, they might miss the furry family member at the end of your lead.

Reduced visibility during nighttime walks increases the risk of accidents. Making sure you and your dog are highly visible to motorists and pedestrians is crucial. Wear reflective clothing and equip your dog with LED light attachments or a reflective collar.

Temperature and weather

Depending on the season, nighttime temperatures can vary, and weather conditions may change rapidly. Be prepared for colder temperatures by dressing appropriately and ensuring your dog stays warm. In hot weather, opt for cooler evening hours to avoid heat-related issues.

Make sure to read our guide on walking your dog in the winter.

Noise and distractions

Nighttime walks may expose your dog to unfamiliar sounds and distractions, which can trigger anxiety or stress. Pay attention to your dog's behaviour and provide reassurance if they seem nervous. Keep walks calm and focused to minimise sensory overload.

The biggest risks

Visibility

Some areas, like big cities, might be so well-lit at night that dog parents have nothing much to worry about. But in darker areas, you need to make sure that you and your pup can see and be seen. Maximising visibility in the dark comes down to two key factors: light and apparel.

The first part is simple: if it’s dark enough, use a torch. Or, better yet, free your hands and use a headlamp. (More on this later.)

Then there’s the way you dress. As any avid nighttime runner or cyclist can tell, wearing bright clothing is crucial. This means you should never wear black or grey pants or shirts. Instead, try reflective yellows, light greens, or even neons. If you really want to go all out, a reflective vest like this one probably won’t cost you too much money — and it can be well worth it.

And that’s just for humans. When it comes to your pet, you’ve got lots of options for light-up and reflective gear, including harnesses, leads, and much more. We’ll get to that soon.

Traffic

No matter how many steps you’ve taken to make you and your four-legged friend more visible, traffic will not be kind to the two of you if you’re careless. Pick your walking route as wisely as possible. Keep a careful eye out for approaching cars or cyclists. And be ready to pull your pup out of the way at a moment’s notice.

Always choose a pavement or a well-worn path over the street if those options are available to you. But if you have to walk in the street, just make sure you never walk with oncoming traffic. If you walk against traffic, you’ll be able to see vehicles approaching and get out of the way quickly. And you’ll be able to pull your dog along with you.

Visibility tools

We’ve touched on this already, but now we’ll shine a light on the best types of tools you can use to keep you and your pet visible (and make it easier for you to see) in poorly lit areas.

Consider buying some of the following:

Reflective gear

This includes tools for both you and your dog. As mentioned, you can wear reflective vests, wristbands, or leg bands. As for your dog, a reflective lead, collar, harness, or even a reflective jacket or other reflective clothing can be extremely useful. You can also attach reflective tape to your dog’s existing lead or collar.

Just make sure it’s comfortable. For instance, if the temperature is low and your pup is bundled up, any reflective gear you put on their body must be big enough to fit over their jacket.

Light-up gear

Like reflective gear, light-up items are a great way to make you and your pup more visible in the dark — particularly light-up shoes for you, and an LED lead or LED collar for your furry friend. Alternatively, you can attach lights to your dog’s current harness or collar.

In addition, glow-in-the-dark items can serve the same purposes. Glow-sticks, or necklaces and bracelets that use neon lights, will help keep you and your dog safe and visible.

Torches

This one is so you can see. And in very dark conditions, a headlamp might be your best bet. One of your hands is already occupied by a lead, and you’ll probably want to keep the other one free.

Pay attention and keep your dog on a lead

Perhaps the most important thing you can do to keep your dog safe in the darkness is to simply be attentive. Keep your eyes peeled, watch the road, and look for animals.

You should also plan your evening walk carefully. Some areas are bound to be safer and brighter than others, and you should pick a familiar route whenever possible.

And never let your pup wander off into poorly-lit areas. In fact, don’t let your dog wander off at all. The most powerful tool you have at your disposal is your dog’s lead. If you keep your dog tethered to you, they can’t run into traffic or chase after a raccoon. And if headlights start barreling toward you, you’ll be able to yank them out of the way quickly.

Oh, one other thing: during nighttime walks, don’t block out external sounds, no matter how big a music lover you are. It’s never a good idea to wear headphones while you're walking your dog at night. And you should also try to stay off your cell phone whenever possible.

Your ears should be as attuned to your surroundings as your eyes — it'll help you react to threats faster.

Planning Safe Walking Routes

Choosing well-lit paths and pavements

Opt for routes with adequate lighting to enhance visibility and reduce the risk of accidents. Stick to well-lit streets, parks with lighting, or designated walking paths.

Avoiding areas with heavy traffic or potential hazards

Steer clear of busy roads, intersections, or areas with high crime rates, especially during nighttime walks. Choose routes free from potential hazards like construction sites, abandoned buildings, or areas prone to crime.

Planning routes in advance using online maps or apps

Utilise online mapping tools or mobile apps to plan your walking routes in advance. Look for routes with good lighting and minimal obstacles, and consider alternative paths if necessary.

Informing someone of your walking route and estimated return time

Before heading out for a nighttime walk, let a family member, friend, or neighbour know your intended route and estimated return time. This ensures that someone knows your whereabouts in case of an emergency.

Where can I walk my dog at night? -  dog-friendly areas

Research dog-friendly areas in your neighbourhood or city that are suitable for nighttime walks. Look for parks, trails, or waterfronts where dogs are allowed and where you can enjoy a safe and pleasant walking experience.

What time should I walk my dog at night?

The best time to walk your dog at night depends on various factors such as your schedule, your dog's needs, and safety considerations.

Generally, it's advisable to walk your dog after sunset when it's dark outside and traffic is lighter. This ensures better visibility for you and your dog, reducing the risk of accidents.

However, it's essential to choose a time that works best for you and your dog's routine while considering factors such as weather conditions, neighbourhood safety, and your dog's comfort level with nighttime walks. Ultimately, aim for a time when you feel most comfortable and when you can ensure the safety and well-being of both yourself and your dog.

Being ready for emergencies

Carrying a fully charged phone for emergencies

Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged before embarking on a nighttime walk. Keep it accessible in case you need to call for help or assistance.

Knowing the location of nearby veterinary clinics or emergency services

Familiarise yourself with the locations of nearby veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, and emergency services along your walking route. This knowledge can be invaluable in case of a medical emergency involving your dog.

Carrying a basic first aid kit for minor injuries

Pack a small first aid kit containing essential supplies such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, and tweezers. This kit can help you address minor injuries or wounds sustained by you or your dog during the walk.

Having identification tags with up-to-date contact information

Ensure your dog wears a collar with identification tags that include your current contact information. If your dog becomes lost during the walk, these tags can help reunite you with your pet quickly.

Bringing along a flashlight or headlamp

Carry a reliable flashlight or headlamp to illuminate your path and surroundings during nighttime walks. This tool can help you navigate dark areas and spot potential hazards, ensuring a safer walking experience for you and your dog.

Consider a GPS-tracking device for your dog

Invest in a GPS tracking device that attaches to your dog's collar to monitor their location in real-time. This device provides added security and peace of mind, allowing you to quickly locate your dog if they wander off or become lost.

Get your dog insured in case something goes wrong

No matter how careful you are, accidental injuries can happen at night, in the early morning, or even when the sun is out in force. Potential accidents are just an unfortunate hazard of pet parenthood. At the end of the day, life is not without its dangers.

Dog insurance can help reimburse you if your pet gets sick or injured. This means you’ll be able to make healthcare decisions based solely on your pet’s best interests — never your finances.

Get £15,000 lifetime vet fee cover with our Complete policy.

Start my quote