As the spooky season approaches, it’s important to remember that while Halloween can be a thrilling time for humans, it can be a source of stress and potential danger for our dogs. Here are some tips to ensure your canine companion stays safe and comfortable during the Halloween festivities.  

Costume Considerations  

If you’re planning to dress up your dog, ensure the costume: 

  • Fits comfortably and doesn’t restrict movement 
  • Doesn’t obstruct vision, hearing, or breathing 
  • Is free from small, chewable parts 

 It’s important to slowly introduce your pup to a costume before All Hallows’ Eve. Set aside time to practice wearing the costume and watch for signs of discomfort. Yawning, lip licking, shaking off, and turning away are all signs your pup is feeling nervous or anxious. If your pet seems distressed, it’s best to skip the outfit. 

Candy Caution 

Halloween treats can be hazardous for dogs. Keep all candy, especially chocolate and xylitol-containing sweets, out of reach, and be sure to educate children about the dangers of sharing their treats with pets. Check your yard or porch the morning after to make sure there are no dangerous treats left behind from the trick-or-treaters. If you don’t want your pup to feel left out, consider making some dog-friendly fall treats.  

Decorations & Lights 

Be mindful of your Halloween decor by ensuring: 

  • Electrical cords and lights are in a secure location to prevent chewing 
  • Candles and jack-o’-lanterns with fire are kept away from curious noses and wagging tails 
  • Toxic plants like lilies and chrysanthemums are avoided   

Door Etiquette 

The constant ringing of doorbells and stream of costumed trick-or-treaters can be overwhelming for many dogs. Consider: 

  • Keeping your dog in a quiet room away from the front door 
  • Using a baby gate to prevent your dog from darting out when the door opens 
  • Having someone stay with your dog to provide comfort and distraction   

ID and Microchip 

In case your dog happens to escape amid the Halloween chaos, ensure they’re wearing a collar with up-to-date ID tags and have a microchip. 

Consider Daycare or Boarding for Your Pup 

For dogs who find Halloween particularly stressful, consider dog daycare or boarding services at a reputable facility. At Dogtopia, we offer: 

  • Safe Socialization: Supervised playtime with other dogs of similar size and play style helps your dog learn positive behavior and gain confidence, and they’ll love having their own fun! 
  • Plenty of Exercise: Your dog will get 8–10 hours of playtime to keep them healthy and happy and prepare them for a restful night. 
  • Professional Care: Our expertly trained Canine Coaches give your dog the attention and comfort they need. 
  • Peace of Mind: Dogtopia parents get access to our live webcams in every playroom, so you can enjoy Halloween festivities knowing your furry family member is safe and stress-free. 

Many locations may even have their own dog-safe festivities planned for the pups! If you’re interested in treating your dog to a fun Halloween staycation, find a Dogtopia near you to get started. 

This blog was reviewed/edited by Dogtopia’s Director of Health & Safety Lorraine Rhoads, an experienced animal biologist and environmental scientist.