Leeds dog owners warned pets could act strangely during tonight's solar eclipse

You’ve queued for hours to get a pair of specialist glasses (or ordered them from our guide earlier this week), you’ve found the ideal location to watch the eclipse this evening, and everything is set.

But what about the other family member who can't quite articulate what’s bothering them?

As the UK prepares for today’s significant solar eclipse, man’s best friend might be in for a sudden dose of confusion - and even a little anxiety.

Dog owners across Leeds and Yorkshire are being advised to keep an eye on their pets this evening as the Moon obscures up to 96% of the Sun in the UK’s most significant solar eclipse since 1999.

In Leeds, the partial eclipse begins shortly after 6pm, peaking around 7:10pm before concluding just after 8pm.

While the rare astronomical event poses no direct physical danger to animals, experts warn that the sudden drop in temperature and daylight could disrupt the environmental cues dogs rely on for their daily routine.

Why dogs might get confused tonight

Canine experts explain that pets will not understand the science behind the eclipse, and may instead mistake the sudden dusk-like conditions for an early sunset, according to a study from dog food brand Years.

Darren Beale, CEO of Years , explained: “Dogs will not understand that an eclipse is taking place. Instead, they may interpret the sudden drop in light and temperature as an early sunset.

“Some dogs might become quieter, head towards their bed or start expecting their evening meal or walk earlier than usual. More sensitive dogs could appear unsettled, follow their owner around, pace or become unusually alert.”

However, because tonight’s eclipse takes place during the early evening when many pets are already preparing to settle down, most dogs are unlikely to experience severe distress.

Should dogs wear eclipse glasses?

Vets and pet specialists emphasise that owners should never attempt to put eclipse glasses or human eye protection on their pets.

Dogs do not naturally look directly at the Sun, and forcing eye protection onto a dog is far more likely to cause unnecessary stress than the eclipse itself.

Owners are also urged not to encourage their pets to look up toward the sky for photos.

Furthermore, experts point out that large crowds, noise, and neighbourhood excitement surrounding viewing parties are more likely to alarm nervous dogs than the changing light itself.

How to keep your pet calm during the eclipse

To keep pets comfortable throughout the evening, owners are advised to follow a few simple steps:

• Maintain routines: Keep dinner times, evening walks, and bedtime routines strictly at their normal times.
• Close the curtains: If the sudden change in natural light appears to unsettle your dog, draw the blinds or curtains and keep indoor lighting consistent.
• Provide a safe space: Ensure your dog has easy access to its usual bed, crate, or preferred quiet corner of the house.
• Avoid busy viewing spots: If you plan on joining outdoor crowds to view the eclipse, leave nervous or reactive dogs comfortably at home.
• Distract with play: Use food puzzle toys, snuffle mats, or gentle indoor play to keep their attention focused indoors.

Keeping those steps in mind means not only can your dog enjoy a stress-free eclipse this evening, but you (and the neighbours) can enjoy the serene space phenomenon as it happens.