Safe Dog Walking for Owners Over 60
Walking your dog is one of the best things you can do for both of you: fresh air, exercise, a reason to get out and say hello to the neighbors. But a dog who pulls, lunges at a squirrel or weaves between your feet can turn a nice walk into a fall.
By MJ Stoltz, ABCDTIACP Professional MemberUpdated November 2026Why dog-walking falls happen, the gear that helps, the skills that make the biggest difference, and simple changes at home. None of it means giving up your walks. It means making them safer.
The Numbers Are Worth Knowing
Falls involving dogs are more common than most people think.
people a year in the US go to the emergency room after a fall involving a dog or cat. Dogs are involved in about 88% of them. (CDC)
Fractures among adults 65 and older while walking a leashed dog went from 1,671 emergency visits in 2004 to 4,396 in 2017. (JAMA Surgery)
Of those injured in that study, more than 1 in 4 were admitted to the hospital, and nearly 4 in 5 were women.
Hip fractures were the most common single injury in that study (17%). The CDC found the most common causes were tripping over the dog, being pulled or pushed by the dog, and walking the dog. The good news: those are things training and the right gear can change.
Gear That Makes Walks Safer
- A standard 6-foot leash, not a retractable one. Retractable leashes give a dog room to build up speed before they hit the end, and the thin cord can wrap around legs and fingers.
- A comfortable leash handle. A padded handle or a leash with a second handle near the clip gives you better control when you need your dog close.
- Properly fitted equipment. The type of collar or harness you use matters less than making sure it’s properly fitted. Ask a trainer to help you choose the best equipment for your dog and to make sure it’s fitted correctly.
- Good shoes. Closed shoes with good grip, not flip-flops, especially on wet grass or sandy sidewalks.
- A small light for early and late walks. In Florida, the coolest times to walk are often the darkest. A clip-on light helps you see the path, and helps drivers see you.
Habits That Prevent Falls
- Never wrap the leash around your hand or wrist. Hold the handle in your palm. If your dog lunges hard, a wrapped leash can pull you down or injure your fingers. It’s safer to let go than to fall.
- Keep your dog on one side. Teach your dog to walk on one side of you so they don’t cross in front of your feet.
- Stop when your dog pulls. Stand still and let them come back to you before you move on. Don’t let them drag you forward.
- Watch the ground. Uneven sidewalks, sprinkler heads, curbs and wet grass cause plenty of falls on their own. Add a pulling dog and the risk goes up.
- Walk in the cooler parts of the day. Heat makes everyone tired, and tired legs are less steady. Early mornings and evenings are better for you and your dog.
- Know your limits on busy days. If it’s windy, wet or there’s a lot going on, a shorter walk or a game in the yard is fine.
- Bring your phone. If you do fall, you want to be able to call for help.
Skills That Make the Biggest Difference
Gear helps, but training is what really makes a walk safe. These are the skills I’d work on first:
- Loose-leash walking. Your dog walks next to you without pulling. (More on leash manners.)
- ”Wait” at doors and curbs. Your dog pauses instead of bolting out the front door or down the step.
- ”Leave it.” Your dog lets go of the squirrel, the lizard or the dropped sandwich instead of lunging for it.
- A calm “sit” for greetings. Your dog sits when a neighbor or another dog comes by, instead of jumping or lunging.
- Coming back to you. If the leash slips out of your hand, your dog comes back when called.
Safety at Home Too
A lot of dog-related falls happen indoors. A few easy changes help:
- Give your dog a bed or mat to go to, so they’re not lying in doorways and hallways
- Pick up toys from walkways
- Use night-lights between the bedroom and bathroom
- Teach your dog not to rush through doors or down stairs ahead of you
- Put food and water bowls out of the main walking path
If You’re Thinking About a New Dog
If you’re choosing a new dog, think about size, energy and strength, not just looks. A strong young dog who pulls hard can be a lot to handle on a leash. An adult dog whose personality you already know is often an easier match than a puppy. If you’d like help thinking it through, I’m happy to talk it over before you choose.
How I Can Help
I work with dogs and their people in their own homes and neighborhoods throughout Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, North Port and the nearby communities, so we practice on your actual sidewalk, at your actual front door, with your actual dog. My Dream Dog Program is especially helpful here, because I can get in plenty of practice with your dog before you have to practice yourself.
Dream Dog
Best for owners with bigger goals or bigger challenges, who want the most hands-on help I offer.
- Homeschool9 training visits
- Lessons6 private lessons
- Timeline6 weeks or less
Jump Start
Perfect for busy owners who want real progress, without having to find time to train every day.
- Homeschool6 training visits
- Lessons5 private lessons
- Timeline5 weeks or less
Essentials Program
The skills every great dog needs, built around the one thing you most want to change.
- Lessons4 private lessons
- WhereIn your home
- Timeline4 weeks or less
Talk to Your Doctor Too
If you’ve had a fall before, have balance problems, or take medicines that make you dizzy, talk with your doctor about walking safely. They may suggest exercises that improve balance and strength.
Safe Dog Walking FAQ
Are retractable leashes safe for seniors?
For most people, a standard 6-foot leash is safer. Retractable leashes let a dog build up speed before hitting the end, and the cord can wrap around legs or fingers.
My dog pulls hard. Should I stop walking them?
Not at all. Pulling is one of the most common things I help with. Until it’s better, well-fitted equipment and shorter walks can help.
Can you train my dog to walk nicely even if I can’t do a lot of physical training?
Yes. I’ll adapt the plan to what’s comfortable for you. Homeschool programs, where I do more of the hands-on training, can be a good fit.
Let's Make Your Walks Easier
Fill out my contact form and tell me about your dog and your walks. We’ll find the simplest way to make them safer and more enjoyable.
