Halloween is becoming a little more of a thing at this time of year! I love spooky season all year round, but appreciate most people don't... and so October when everyone gets spooky is definitely my fav time of year! There are decorations in the shops, little ones planning costumes, and the occasional knock at the door from a tiny vampire. It can be a fun evening for families, but for dogs it may be a confusing parade of doorbells, unfamiliar outfits and very tempting treats.
If you’re including your dog in the fun, the best costume is one they can comfortably forget they’re wearing. Some dogs don't mind a full costume and for some, a small ow might be enough. In terms of looking the part? A festive bandana or a simple accessory is often plenty. If you choose a full outfit, check that it fits without rubbing or restricting breathing, walking, sitting or toileting. Keep fabric and fastenings away from the eyes and mouth, and avoid anything with small parts they could chew or swallow if your dog is a chewer!
Want to train your dog to handle an outfit? That can be done! Let your dog set the pace. Try the outfit for a short time at home, pair it with something they enjoy, I like to train my girl over her dinner time because she LOVES food. If they’re repeatedly trying to remove it, freezing, hiding, panting when they aren’t hot, or looking worried, take it off. They haven’t failed Halloween; they’ve given you useful feedback. A comfortable dog in a bandana is every bit as festive as a dog dressed as a pumpkin.
The other Halloween rule is less negotiable: lollies and chocolate are for people, not dogs. Chocolate can be toxic, and some sugar-free sweets and other products contain xylitol, which is particularly dangerous to dogs. Lollies can also cause choking or stomach upsets, and wrappers can create their own problems. Keep treat bowls, trick-or-treat bags and baking well out of reach, and remind visitors not to share their stash with the dog. Check ingredient labels rather than assuming a sweet is harmless because it’s small.
If you think your dog has eaten chocolate, a lolly, or anything containing xylitol, contact your vet or an animal poison service straight away. Keep the packaging, note what was eaten and roughly when, and tell them your dog’s size and any symptoms. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear, and don’t try to make your dog vomit unless a veterinary professional specifically tells you to. Quick professional advice is the safest next step.
Then there’s the doorbell. One knock can turn into a steady stream of excited visitors, which may be overwhelming for a dog who’s unsure about strangers or the noise. Set up a quiet space away from the front door with water, a comfy bed and something safe to occupy them. A baby gate or closed door can help prevent a dash outside when the door opens. If your dog enjoys greeting people, keep them supervised and give them the option to retreat. Nobody needs to prove they’re a social butterfly on Halloween.
A little planning goes a long way: choose comfort over elaborate costumes, keep every treat securely stored, and make a calm retreat available before the first knock. If Petal and I are staying in, I’ll happily call a bandana a costume and keep the lollies for the humans. Festive, safe, and no negotiations over a tiny pumpkin hat required.
Have a happy Halloween!
Keep the treats up high and let your dog celebrate in whatever way feels good to them.
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