Safety Tips For Running With a Dog at Night

Amy Tokic
by Amy Tokic
There’s No Reason Why You Can’t Stay Safe When Running With A Dog At Night


There are a lot of good reasons why people like running with a dog at night. There’s less traffic (both automotive and pedestrian), it’s a lot cooler (especially in the summer) and it’s a great way for you and your pooch to blow off some steam at the end of the day. But night time runs carry with it its own safety concerns, so we’ve put together some tips for running with a dog at night.


There are a lot of good reasons why people like running with a dog at night.


  • If you’re planning on running with a dog at night, there are precautions you’ll need to take. Be sure to wear clothing that can be seen in the dark, and attach illuminated strips to your dog’s collar. There are plenty of dog accessories available that’s made for running at night, like reflective collars, leashes and vests.
  • Stick to routes you know well, as you’ll be less likely to bump into objects concealed by the darkness and your family will know where you are if you happen to be running late (pun intended).
  • Be aware of everything around you. Just because you see that car coming, it doesn’t mean the driver can see you. Keep your eyes peeled at intersections, stop signs and driveways. As well, your head up so you can see obstacles that are coming your way, whether they be cracks in the sidewalk, uneven ground or other people and animals.
  • Always run against traffic. As well, it may help to wear a wide-brimmed hat (like a ball cap) to protect your eyes from oncoming lights. You should keep your dog on a shorter leash, but make sure it’s not short enough for you to trip over. Leave the extendable leash at home, because with too much of a lead, your dog may take off into traffic.
  • No music. At all. Not only does it distract you from hidden dangers and traffic, it’s rude to your jogging buddy. Catch up with your pooch, ask him how his day was and fill him in on what’s going on in your life.


Running with a dog at night is a great way to finish of your day and bond with your pooch. Do you take your dog out for a nightly jog? What do you do to stay safe? Share your tips with readers in the comments section below.

Amy Tokic
Amy Tokic

Amy Tokic, Editor of PetGuide.com, is a passionate animal lover and proud pet parent of Oscar, a Shih Tzu/Chihuahua cross, and Zed, a Japanese Chin. Her love of animals began in kindergarten, when she brought her stuffed dog Snoopy into class with her every day. Now, she writes about her adventures in pet ownership and tirelessly researches products, news and health related issues she can share with other animal enthusiasts. In her free time, Amy loves perusing used book and record stores, obsessing over the latest pet products available and chasing squirrels with wild abandon (a habit attributed to spending too much time with her pooches).

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