It’s dark outside but you need to take the dog for a walk. Let’s gear up to ensure you and your dog stay safe during these nighttime walks.
When we lived in town, I’d walk our dogs every evening after dinner. I love watching the sunset on our walks. The summertime is wonderful; it’s warm, bright, and sunny until almost 9 pm. But in the fall and winter months, it gets dark so early; we bundle up and walk under the light of the street lights and moonlight!
These days we still head out after dinner, but it’s in our pitch-black backyard… and I still use many of these tips and gear.
These are the tips I use and recommend for anyone walking their dog at night.
Safety tips for walking the dog at night
Before heading out the door tonight, review these tips for keeping you and your dog safe.
1. Take a familiar route
Opt for a walking path you have taken in the daylight many times before, somewhere you easily know your way around. Walking alone in an area you don’t know can get confusing very quickly at night. The last thing you want to do is get lost at night walking your dog.
2. Stick to well-lit areas
This not only ensures better visibility for you and your dog but also minimizes potential dangers lurking in the dark. You know what I’m referring to… those situations that give you the creeps and want to run straight home.
3. Vary your walking routes
Even though you always want to be familiar with the route, you should switch it up so the bad guys can’t stalk you. We’ve all seen those crime shows where stalkers watch and track their obsession’s schedule! Don’t let that be you.
4. Be aware of your surroundings
Knowing where you are is helpful, but also be aware of other people and dogs around you. Keep your eyes wide open, always scanning your pathway. Keep a confident posture because criminals are always looking for an easy target.
5. Walk with a friend
Safety in numbers. Like I said above, the bad guys are looking for easy prey. Walking with a friend when you’re out with your dog at night is like having an extra set of eyes and ears, which enhances safety. You can watch out for each other, share any concerns, and help each other navigate through any unexpected situations that may arise.
6. Always carry your phone
In case of an emergency, having your phone allows you to quickly call for help. It also enables you to easily contact friends, family, or veterinary services if needed. Additionally, your phone can serve as a navigational tool if you find yourself lost or in unfamiliar surroundings.
7. Keep the headphones at home
By keeping your ears free, you can listen for any potential dangers like approaching vehicles, barking dogs, or unexpected sounds that might signal trouble. It also allows you to better communicate with your dog and respond quickly to their needs. Plus, walking without headphones lets you fully immerse yourself in the experience, enjoying the sights and sounds of the night while staying safe.
8. Keep your dog on a leash at all times
Keeping your dog on a leash at all times during walks is crucial for their safety and the safety of others. Even the most well-trained dogs can get distracted or startled by unfamiliar sights and sounds in the dark. A leash ensures that you have control over your dog, preventing them from running off into potentially dangerous situations like busy roads or encounters with wildlife. It also helps to prevent them from approaching other dogs or people without your supervision. Just because your dog is friendly, doesn’t mean the other dog is.
9. Use a shorter dog leash
For nighttime walks, I love our 6′ LED leashes. I get compliments on them every time we use them. I strongly advise against using retractable leashes because they can be dangerous when walking your dog at night. The long black thin line is impossible to see at night, which can cause tripping, your dog getting wrapped around a post, or lunging at something in the distance!
10. Use safety and reflective gear
Before heading out the door, dress appropriately with bright colors and proper gear to keep you and your dog safe while walking at night time. Reflective gear, such as vests, collars, and leashes, make you and your dog more visible to passing vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians, reducing the risk of accidents. Below is more detail about what safety gear we use and recommend.
11. Check the weather forecast before heading out
Knowing what to expect in terms of temperature, precipitation, and wind conditions allows you to dress appropriately and prepare any necessary gear, such as raincoats or extra layers. Being aware of any potential weather-related hazards, like thunderstorms or icy conditions, enables you to adjust your route or timing accordingly.
I will never forget the day I got stuck out in a sudden thunderstorm while walking the dogs. I was at least a mile away from home! Thank God my husband was home and picked us up.
12. Be cautious of wildlife encounters
Keep an eye out for signs of wildlife activity, such as rustling bushes or glowing eyes in the darkness, and be prepared to react calmly if you encounter any animals. It’s essential to keep your dog on a leash and under control to prevent them from chasing or startling wildlife, which could lead to dangerous situations for both your dog and the wildlife.
Have you ever watched Dr. Poll on TV, where he removes porcupine needles from a dog’s face? Or what about the stories of dogs getting skunked? Both of my worst fears when letting my dogs outside at night.
13. Watch out for toxic substances on the ground
Keep an eye out for common hazards like discarded food wrappers, spilled chemicals, or plants that may be harmful if ingested. Sadly, some people leave litter in public areas… I’ve come across half-eaten food, cups filled with who knows what, and substances I don’t want to know.
Ensure your dog stays away from any suspicious items and if you can, clean up any trash you come across. If it’s safe to do so, I use an extra poop bag to pick it up.
14. Ensure your dog is comfortable with walks in the dark
Some dogs are afraid of the darkness. If your dog gets spooked at night, start by practicing walks in a well-lit area and then gradually transition to darker environments. Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, to reinforce good behavior during night walks.
15. Keep your dog’s vaccinations up to date
Keeping your dog’s vaccinations up to date is crucial for their health and well-being, especially during nighttime walks when they may encounter various environmental factors and potential hazards. Vaccinations protect your dog from contagious diseases and reduce the risk of them contracting illnesses from other animals they may encounter outdoors.
16. Have emergency contacts readily available
Make sure to have important numbers saved in your phone, such as your veterinarian, the closest emergency animal hospital, your local non-emergency police, and a trusted friend or family member who can assist you in case of an emergency.
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Gear for night dog walking
There are many options when it comes to visibility and safety products for nighttime dog walking. These are the best products for walking your dog at night based on what I use for our dogs.
You can find all my recommended products listed in my Nighttime Gear for Walking in the Dark with Your Dog Amazon Shopping List.
1. LED light-up or reflective leashes
I bought our LED leashes several years ago and LOVE them! They are rechargeable via USB connection so no worries about battery replacement. Simply charge it for one hour to enjoy at least 5 hours of illumination. I go for two weeks without having to charge our leashes, and we walk about 45 minutes every night.
2. LED collars or harnesses for your dog
Now that we live in a rural area we don’t take walks at night. But I still use these LED collars so I can see where the dogs are in the yard. They are also great for walks, but I still like the leashes for that more.
3. Reflective vests for you and your dog
An LED safety vest is the perfect gear for night walks. Compared to reflective vests that only work when car lights shine on a reflective strip, a dog vest has LEDs that work ALL THE TIME, regardless of an external light source.
Be twice as bright if you wear an LED Reflective Vest along with your dog. They are usually marketed for runners but would be a great tool for walking your dog in the dark.
4. Dog poop bags with built-in light
Have you ever tried finding dog poop in the dark? You think you know where it is, but it’s so dark you can’t see the poop! I’m always pulling out my phone to use as a flashlight, but these dog poop bags with built-in lights can ensure that you leave no mess behind.
5. Flashlight
Yes, I usually opt for my phone’s flashlight, but it has its limitations. Having a good flashlight with you can help you see other dogs, people, and things in the distance.
Did you know they make special flashlights just for walking at night? Not that you need anything other than a standard flashlight, but these options can make it a little easier to shuffle a flashlight and your dog.
6. GPS tracker
If your dog were to become lost or wander off, a GPS tracker allows you to quickly and accurately pinpoint their location, making it easier to locate and retrieve them. This technology can be particularly useful in low-light conditions when visibility is reduced, ensuring that you can track your dog’s movements even in the dark.
7. Reflective strips
I think the LED or reflective vests are a better option, but reflective stickers for your clothing can help enhance your visibility in the dark. You can put them on your coat, pants or even the dog harness.
8. Whistle or noise maker
In the event of an emergency or if you need assistance, a loud whistle or noise maker can help you quickly signal for help. These devices can be used to scare off wildlife, other dogs, or people. I’ve tried a few noise makers, the Doggie Don’t is my favorite.
9. Pepper spray or mace
Pepper spray can be a useful tool for self-defense during nighttime walks with your dog. In the event of an aggressive animal encounter or a threatening situation, pepper spray can help deter potential attackers and create a safe distance between you and the threat.
It provides a non-lethal means of protection, allowing you to defend yourself and your dog without causing permanent harm. I recently bought this pepper spray for my daughter.
10. Insect repellent
Insect repellent can be a helpful addition to your nighttime walking routine, especially during warmer months when bugs are more active. Applying insect repellent to yourself and your dog can help keep pesky mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting insects at bay, reducing the risk of discomfort and potential insect-borne illnesses. Never use toxic chemicals on your dog.
Rescue Dogs 101’s recommended products: Nighttime Gear for Walking in the Dark with Your Dog.
Be Safe, Be Seen
Use common sense and be safe while walking your dog at night. The low visibility brings safety concerns we don’t always think about. You and your dog’s safety is the priority.
I use the LED leashes, bring my phone, walk in the areas around my neighborhood, and am always hyper-aware of my surroundings. I use my phone as a flashlight instead of carrying a separate flashlight, so I can see when I have to pick up the dog poop.
If you live in an area where it isn’t safe to walk at night, then it’s best to arrange your schedule so you can walk during daylight hours… even if you have to wake up earlier in the morning. And if that’s not possible then opt for indoor activities instead.
I would love to hear how you stay safe when walking your dog at night. Let me, and the Rescue Dogs 101 Community, know in the comments below.
I like walking at night because it’s typically quieter than during the day and there are usually fewer cars and need to follow a few more of your tips. I have seen the light up collars before but the leash is definitely more appealing that way people can see that there is both me and my dog not just her.
I opted for the LED leash over the collar because I like the collars our dogs have already, and really only need the light during the winter months.
Thanks for these great tips. We just moved to the country and will DEFINITELY need a flashlight , reflective vests and maybe some pepper spray for the bears!
Yikes, bears! Be careful out there!
Love the LED collars and leashes. I had never seen those before. I rarely take the dogs anywhere at night. I like to be able to see everything clearly!
If I had time during the daylight hours, I’d totally opt for the day walks vs. night. But I am not an early morning person, and it gets dark by 4:30 during the winter.
I want to get Mr. N one of those reflective leashes. He has a light but it’s not very big and he’s small/low to the ground so I’m not sure how visible he actually is.
You should get one. I really love our LED leashes. The charge lasts well over a week for us.
You covered all the best safety precautions when walking your dog at night! I kept thinking of these things then POOF you had it on the list! You even had a couple I didn’t think of! Thank you – we have to be sure that we and our pets are safe!
Aww, thanks Joely, I appreciate the kind words.
I walk Layla at about 10 everynight but we stick to main roads so am not that concerned. She wears an LED collar, I wear an armband with a flashlight on so people can see me, I carry a whistle on my key ring for emergencies. I will not take my phone with me as there has been too many people mugged for phones by just having them in their hands. When I take Layla out I live in a busy area with restaurants etc so there are always people on the sidewalk. One thing I will not do is walk down dark alleys or side streets.
Sounds like you have it all covered Ruth! Glad you are staying safe out there.
This is so appropriate because I have the Illumiseen leash and still I’m kind of afraid to walk my dogs at night because there’s not much of a sidewalk in our neighborhood (and coyotes). I was thinking last night as I pulled into the driveway at dusk that I should get a vest for myself to go with the leash. Nice re-cap!
Thanks Susan. I think if you have the time to walk during the daylight hours, all the better. Just with the days so short during the winter months, it’s hard to get in our walks before dark.
Some great advice. I have trouble finding reflective leashes etc that aren’t too heavy for the 3.5 pounder! Or a light that isn’t too heavy. We stick to daytime if possible and well light spaces and I wear the reflective gear. One thing though … as an emergency expert… changing your route often is actually recommended to avoid being predictable and ambushed. Don’t be a mark….
I see so many people with headphones on when walking their dog and it amazes me! This is one of those times when I get to really interact with my dog. I talk to him while we’re walking. I point out things he might be interested in seeing/doing, etc. We do like to vary our walking path for more interest, but only do this during the day and only in areas we know well. One other tip if someone is walking their dog alone at night is to be sure someone knows where you’ll be walking and when you’ll be back.
Good tips! Must admit, we very rarely walk at night. Our neighborhood is not well lit, and in many spots we don’t even have sidewalks, and the streets are narrow and winding, so I just don’t feel very safe from the crazy drivers around here. But since I work from home and make my own schedule, we can always manage to get out on our walks during the day.