It’s that time of year again. We’ve officially rolled back our clocks and are now watching early-evening sunsets. Since our dogs’ bathroom needs don’t change depending on the sun’s schedule, these shorter days will undoubtedly mean dog walks in the dark. So, let’s talk safety.
The safety tips on this list are mostly common sense. Still, a reminder never hurts and will hopefully make you more mindful as you set out for your evening stroll.
1. Wear Reflective Gear
When it comes to nighttime dog walks, the goal shouldn’t be to blend in. Rather, you want to stick out from the night sky and your dark surroundings. Make yourself more visible to oncoming traffic by swapping your regular walking gear for reflective or light-up options. One scroll through Amazon and you’ll find a variety of reflective dog bandanas (like these) and vests (like this one). Plus, there are also LED leashes, collars, and harnesses.
2. Hook a Small Flashlight to Your Dog’s Leash
Picture this: You’re out for an evening stroll with your dog and the sun goes down. On your way home, your pup decides it’s poop time. Being the responsible dog parent that you are, you reach for a waste bag and bend down to pick it up. But, WAIT! Where is your pup’s poo pile?! If only you had a flashlight to help! This scenario is all too real and can easily be avoided by simply hooking an XS flashlight onto your pup’s leash.
3. Leash Up
While I keep my dogs leashed during all walks (no matter the time of day), it’s extremely important to keep the leash on at night. First things first: A leash makes it easier for you to control your pup in case danger arises. Another benefit: If something were to startle your dog, they’re less likely to dart off and get lost.
4. Consider a GPS Collar
In #3, I said they’re “less likely to dart off and get lost” because there is always a chance you drop the leash. For extra security, consider a GPS collar or tracking device. The brand Fi makes a smart collar that harnesses the power of GPS and LTE-M Cellular Networks to remotely track your dog. Fi offers escape alerts, tracks your pup’s steps/activity level, has a built-in LED light, and can stay charged for up to 3 months!
5. Keep Your Pup Close
If you’re a regular Proud Dog Mom reader then you’ve probably heard me say there are four main types of walks:
- Potty walks. Short and to the point — a quick walk down the block and as soon as Fido does his business then it’s back inside.
- Exercise walks. Powerwalk with your pup, where the goal is to elevate heart rate, fire up the muscles, and do the body some good.
- Training walks. Your time to work on leash manners, obedience skills, and socialization.
- Mental enrichment walks. Slower-paced walks where your dog is given a bit more freedom and isn’t constantly held in the heel position. It’s your dog’s time to stop, sniff, check the pee-mail, and just BE A DOG!
While I often emphasize the importance of mental enrichment walks and letting our pups have enough room to explore, do yourself a favor and keep your canine companion on a short lead when walking in the dark. Depending on your surroundings, an animal can jump out or a random person may appear and get a little too close. It’s safer for both of you to stay close to each other!
6. Choose Your Route Carefully
- It’s always fun to explore new paths. But, when walking at night, stick to a route you and your dog are both familiar with.
- Stay on well-lit sidewalks or designated walking paths.
- While it’s best to avoid busy roads, if you must walk near a bustling street with cars whizzing by, walk against traffic. This way, you can see oncoming cars as they approach and monitor your surroundings.
7. Ditch the Headphones
When it comes to safety, it’s all about being alert to your surroundings. If you’re sporting earbuds and blasting music, you’re less likely to hear nearby cars, cyclists, animals, and people.
8. Bring Your Phone, But …
To follow up on #7, always bring your phone in case of an emergency, but keep it in your pocket and remain present during your nighttime dog walk. Your friend’s text or work email can wait until you return home safely.
9. Buddy System
Grab your spouse, roommate, neighbor, or another friend and walk together! This is a great way to make your last walk of the day a whole lot safer (and even more enjoyable).
Let’s share our knowledge and tips with each other. Share your tips for safer dog walks in the comment section below!
