Uk parks, fear of going for a run in the morning because of dogs?

[Anonymous]

I want to start going for morning jogs or runs like at 7 in the morning or at 8 but then I just fear what if a dog walker is walking his or her dog and then that dog comes after me, how do people go for runs lol

[Oliverlogan263]

Ugh I totally get that fear! Dog attacks are no joke. Someone I knew first started jogging early mornings, they was always on high alert scanning for dogs too. A few things that helped ease their anxiety:

- Check park rules/signs. Most places require dogs to be leashed at certain hours for this exact reason.

- Scope it out first - drive or walk through slowly to identify regular dog walkers and get a feel if pups tend to be well behaved on leash.

- Consider routes away from more wooded areas where you could feel cornered if something happened.

- Let someone know your planned route/timing each time just in case.

- Carry pepper spray - having that extra defense could give you peace of mind.

- Avoid wearing headphones so you can be more aware of surroundings.

Honestly after a while of consistent runs without incident, it got way easier for me to relax. Most dogs leave you alone if you don't engage. You could also talk to regular walkers if worried about a specific dog. Just take normal precautions and you should be fine! Sometimes you gotta push through that initial fear.

[Staximus]

Who cares about dogs? Spray the bastard with pepper spray

[Anonymous]

I’ve seen some parks with specific sections of the park you can’t have dogs in so maybe look for one of those, or maybe you could go for a run using a local school playing field that is public access

[OldBlue]

But try not to hit the dog. Just the owner.

[Anonymous]

Just always make sure to give yourself enough space between you and any dog you encounter.

[slatyb]

Carry bear spray? Or maybe dog treats?

[Anonymous]

I know, uk is filled with dog addicts

[Redstang88]

They’re dogs, what’s the issue?