<p data-start="405" data-end="927">One of the main reasons dogs can see in the dark better than humans is because of a special structure in their eyes called the tapetum lucidum. This is a layer of cells behind the retina that reflects light that has passed through the retina back into the eye. By doing this, the tapetum lucidum essentially gives the eye a second chance to capture any light, improving vision in low-light environments. This is why animals like dogs, who are more active during dawn and dusk, are able to navigate better when it's darker.

<p data-start="929" data-end="1490">In addition to the tapetum lucidum, dogs also have a higher number of rod cells in their retinas compared to humans. Rod cells are responsible for detecting light and motion, which is crucial in dim lighting. Humans rely more on cone cells, which are responsible for color and fine detail, so in a dark environment, dogs have a bit of an advantage do dogs have night vision when it comes to detecting movement and shapes in the shadows. However, while they can see better in dim lighting, dogs still struggle in complete darkness, as they still need some light to help with their vision.

<p data-start="1492" data-end="1868">Another factor that affects how well dogs can see at night is their sense of smell and hearing. Dogs have an extraordinary sense of smell and are able to pick up scents that humans can&rsquo;t detect. Their acute hearing also helps them sense their environment. This means that even in low light, dogs can rely on their other senses to navigate and stay aware of what's around them.

<p data-start="1870" data-end="2339">However, it's important to note that dogs do not see in complete darkness. While they have better low-light vision than humans, they still require some level of light to see clearly. Their eyes are adapted to see in dim conditions, not to function in total darkness. When it&rsquo;s pitch black, a dog may still struggle to see, just as a human would. But in situations where there is some light, such as moonlight or the faint glow from streetlights, dogs can do quite well.

<p data-start="2341" data-end="2827">In comparison to humans, dogs also have a different perception of color. While we see a wide range of colors, dogs are thought to see the world in a limited palette, similar to someone who is red-green colorblind. Dogs primarily see shades of blue and yellow, but colors like red and green may appear as different shades of gray or brown. This doesn't affect their night vision per se, but it does mean that their world looks quite different from ours, both during the day and at night.

<p data-start="2829" data-end="3301" data-is-last-node="">So, while dogs don&rsquo;t have true "night vision" like some animals, their ability to see in low-light conditions is definitely enhanced. Thanks to their tapetum lucidum, higher number of rod cells, and heightened senses of smell and hearing, dogs can navigate and function quite well in darker environments. If you&rsquo;ve ever noticed your dog seeming to move around confidently at night, it&rsquo;s likely because they are able to rely on these amazing adaptations to their advantage.