<iframe src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/ns.html?id=GTM-PK9D66" height="0" width="0" style="display:none;visibility:hidden" title="gtm-frame"></iframe>Can I Walk My dog if I am Self-Isolating? | Agria Pet Insurance
03330 30 10 00
Get a quote
My AccountGet a quote
Get a quote

Back to Guides and advice

Can I walk my dog if I am self-isolating?

With government guidance being updated and changed regularly, it can be confusing to know exactly what is and what isn’t allowed. While there is plenty of advice for humans, what do we do about our dogs?

There are several reasons why you may need to self-isolate:

  • You may have symptoms of Covid-19 and be waiting for your test result.
  • You may have tested positive.
  • You may have been informed that you’ve been in close contact with someone else who has tested positive.

Whatever the reason, the current guidance is the same – if you are self-isolating, you may not leave your home for any reason.

How to prepare for self-isolation

If you find out you need to self-isolate, it will feel a lot less difficult if you have planned your dog care.

  • Daily walks are essential for a dog’s physical and mental wellbeing, so it’s a great idea to have a friend or family member on standby who can collect your dog from the garden or the doorstep, at a safe distance.
  • Alternatively, you could speak to a local dog-walking service, some of which offer a no-contact service, collecting your dog, using their own leads and other equipment.
  • Your local veterinary practice may also be able to put you in touch with suitable dog walking services.
  • It’s also worth stocking up on some extra dog food and any medication that your dog needs, enough for an additional ten days just in case you do need to self-isolate.
  • If you live in a flat and have no access to private outdoor space, you will need to take your dog out for quick toilet breaks. In this case, wear a mask and gloves, keep the trip out as brief as possible and keep your distance from anyone you see.

Ways to make home time fun

Although you may be stuck at home, you can use this time to try and make it as fun as possible for your dog and enjoy some extra quality time together.

  • Puzzle toys and Kongs are excellent for giving your dog’s brain a bit of a workout
  • If you have a private garden, make as much use of this as possible for exercise
  • Have a look online and find a fun new trick to try and teach your dog while you have this extra time
  • Hide and seek or sniffing games around the home can be really enjoyable for your dog
  • Dig out some of the toys that haven’t been played with for a while, and play together. Games of fetch or tug are usually a favourite.
  • You can even find podcasts and playlists online that are designed to help your dog relax!

Safety first

There’s no evidence to suggest that dogs can become ill from Covid-19, or that they can spread it. That being said, the virus could possibly survive on their fur for a short time, just as it can on many surfaces. There’s no need to wear a mask around your dog (and you should never put a mask on a dog). Continuing to practise good hygiene measures at all times will be sufficient.

So if you do find that you need to self-isolate, try and have fun with your dog and enjoy the extra time together that you might not usually get, and above all, stay safe.

As an Agria Pet Insurance customer, you can speak to a vet completely free whenever you have a question or concern about your pet’s health. Simply download the Agria app for free 24/7 video calls; giving you expert advice to help keep your pet happy and healthy.

Download free from your app store here

Find out more here

Previous article

Can dogs eat blueberries?

Next article

Can dogs eat cucumber?

Related guides and advice


Follow us


  • Cookie policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • UK tax policy
  • Terms and conditions
  • Modern slavery statement

For UK customers:
Agria Pet Insurance Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, Financial Services Register Number 496160. Agria Pet Insurance Ltd is registered and incorporated in England and Wales with registered number 04258783. Registered office: First Floor, Blue Leanie, Walton Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP21 7QW. Agria insurance policies are underwritten by Agria Försäkring who is authorised and regulated by the Prudential Regulatory Authority and Financial Conduct Authority.


For Jersey customers:
Agria Pet Insurance Ltd is regulated by the Jersey Financial Services Commission (JFSC). Ref: 0001498. Registered office: As detailed above.


For Guernsey customers:
Clegg Gifford Channel Islands Limited is licensed by the Guernsey Financial Services Commission. Ref: 2722221. Registered office: Admiral House, Place Du Commerce, St Peter Port, Guernsey GY1 2AT.

© 2024 Agria Pet Insurance Ltd. All Rights Reserved.