5 Tips for Walking Your Dog at Night

With shorter daylight during winter, or hot 90-degree summer days, sometimes it’s best to walk your dog at night. Walking at night creates one huge obstacle though: it’s difficult to see in the dark. Many things can hide in darkness, so it’s best to take a few safety precautions before going on a nighttime walk with your dog.

1. Wear Reflective Collars & Harnesses

When it’s dark outside, it’s impossible to see moving objects in the distance. Visibility is key at night, and it’s important for drivers, cyclists, joggers and fellow walkers to see you and your dog ahead in the dark. Choose a reflective or glow-in-the-dark dog collar or harness. While white dogs reflect light better than dark-colored dogs, it’s important for all dogs to wear some type of light reflective material during nighttime walks.

These principles apply to pet owners too. Wear light-colored reflective clothes or shoes or carry a flashlight.

2. Walk on Lighted Paths

When walking your dog at night, choose lighted pathways for safety. You can find these in most parks and neighborhoods. Lighted pathways will allow drivers to see you when you’re walking near roadways, so they slow down.

Lights also provide you security. You’ll be able to see any approaching criminals, so you can react quickly. Additionally, lighted pathways will identify loose dogs, potholes, wild animals, broken glass and other harmful hazards that might be in your way.

RELATED: Walking Two Dogs at Once Tips

3. Use a Short Leash

During nighttime dog walks, it’s important to keep your dog close to you. Attach a 4-foot leash to your dog’s harness, or keep retractable leashes locked at 4 feet. Better yet, keep retractable leashes at home. They’re cumbersome during emergencies.

Dogs can navigate through darkness fairly easy, as their noses detect every scent and their ears hear every sound. Having a short leash on your dog’s harness will prevent your dog from stepping on broken glass, munching on discarded food or encountering wildlife. For you and your dog’s safety, keep your dog close to you during night walks.

4. Choose a Safe Path

Aside from choosing a lighted pathway, make sure it’s safe. Choose a path located in a safe and quiet neighborhood instead of a busy street. Safe paths should be free of loose dogs running around, barking dogs at fence lines, wildlife sightings (i.e. snakes, scorpions, raccoons, opossums) and criminal activity. Walking your dog at night may deter some criminals, but it certainly won’t stop all. Before heading out for a nightly walk, tell a friend or family member the path you’ll take and when you’ll be home.

5. Keep Your Phone in Your Pocket

Keep your phone in your pocket and ear buds at home. Unplug and enjoy this bonding time with your dog. Listening to music and talking on your phone are extremely distracting, which take your focus away from keeping you and your dog safe. Always be aware of your surroundings.

Be safe!