Reply #1: I do in well lighted residential streets with my dog and pepper spray... [View All]

or in the nearby shopping district with lots of restaurants and coffe shops open late...I will only walk across the large nearby park (which allows me foot access to a nearby grocery store), until early dusk.

This question reminds me of a summer I spent in Stockholm, when I was so amazed to see women with baby carriages out walking at 3 am by themselves-- with no worry (during those very long days of light around summer solstice). If Americans could see the sense of freedom from fear in many European and Scandinavian countries, they would be amazed...

On edit, I'm in Central Denver and violent crime is a concern. Ironically, this city seems more concerned about cracking down on off-leash dogs in the nearby park than any of the other more serious unlawful behaviors going on there at night. Adding to the irony, is that more people with their dogs out at night does bring down crime, as has been shown in many cities.

I really underscore the sense of protection afforded by the dog. While she is not at all aggressive, she will go into a low growl if someone comes up suddenly and startles her and is just big enough (at 60 pounds) to give at least some pause.. I NEVER drive at night alone without her in the car-- Most people know how territorial protective dogs can be in the car. A car jacker would have to be pretty bold to go after one occupied with a large dog.