How to Include Your Dog in Halloween Fun (Safely!)

Halloween is the perfect time for some spooky fun with your pup! From cute costumes to tasty treats, there’s so much you can do together. But while we’re having fun, it’s important to keep our furry friends safe and stress-free.

Let’s dive into some easy tips for a safe and happy Halloween with your dog.

Safe and Fun Dog Costumes

Who doesn’t love a good dog costume? Pet stores have tons of options, but if your dog’s not a fan of wearing something complicated, that’s okay! 

Some dogs are cool with wearing a full outfit, while others might only tolerate a simple accessory. If your dog seems a little uncomfortable, here are some low-key costume ideas that won’t stress them out:

• Superdog: Tie a red cape or bandanna around your dog’s collar for an instant superhero look.

• Pumpkin Pup: Grab an orange dog shirt or sweater and add a cute jack-o’-lantern face with fabric paint.

• Partner Costume: Match with your pup! Think Dorothy and Toto, Scooby and Shaggy, or any duo you can dream up.

• Skeledog: For dark-furred dogs, trace a skeleton with pet-safe white paint (like Opawz). It washes out easily and looks awesome!

• Beanie Baby: Cut out a big red heart like a Beanie Baby tag and attach it to their collar—simple and adorable.

• Wings: Add some flair with bat wings, angel wings, or devil wings that attach to your dog’s harness. They're cute and won’t bother your dog too much if they’re used to wearing a harness.

Dog-Friendly Halloween Treats

Halloween is all about the treats, but be careful what your dog gets their paws on! Here’s a quick list of what to avoid and what’s safe to share.

Treats to Avoid:

• Chocolate: Super toxic to dogs, so keep it far away!

• Grapes and Raisins: They can cause serious kidney problems.

• Candy with Xylitol: This sweetener (found in sugar-free candies) is dangerous for dogs.

• Candy Wrappers: Dogs love to chew on everything, but wrappers can mess with their tummy.

Safe Treats:

• Apple Slices: Just make sure to remove the seeds and core!

• Plain Popcorn: As long as it’s free from butter, salt, or any other flavorings, it’s a fun, low-cal snack.

• Pumpkin: Cooked pumpkin (not pie filling) is both safe and healthy for dogs. Plus, it’s the perfect seasonal treat!

• Dog-Safe Halloween Treats: Check out your local pet store for special Halloween-themed dog treats or whip up some homemade ones.

Managing Trick-or-Treaters

With your doorbell ringing nonstop, it’s easy for your dog to get worked up. Some dogs love greeting guests, while others might get anxious or overstimulated. Here’s how to handle Halloween night:

• Take a Pre-Walk: Before the chaos begins, take your dog for a walk to help them burn off energy and take a bathroom break. A tired dog is a calm dog!

• Create a Safe Space: If your dog gets anxious with all the doorbell action, set them up in a quiet room or their crate with their favorite toy or blanket. This keeps them safe and prevents any escape attempts when the door’s constantly opening and closing.

• Manners Matter: If your dog is joining you to greet trick-or-treaters, make sure they’ve got their manners in check! Little kids might be scared of dogs, and an excited pup could accidentally knock them over. Keep your dog on a leash and make sure they don’t jump up on visitors.

Keep Your Dog Safe

Whether your dog is part of the action or hanging out in a cozy spot inside, safety is key. Here are a few things to remember:

• Leash & Harness: If your dog is greeting trick-or-treaters, make sure they’re wearing a secure, escape-proof harness. This way, they won’t bolt out the door when it opens.

• ID & Microchip: In case your dog does slip out during all the excitement, make sure their microchip info and ID tag are up to date. It’ll help get them home faster if they get lost.

By planning ahead, you can include your dog in all the Halloween fun without the stress. At Joyride Harness, we’re all about keeping your pup safe and secure. Our vet-approved harnesses come with reflective patches, an easy-grip handle, and a comfy design, so you can enjoy Halloween night (or any night!) with peace of mind.

For more tips on keeping your dog safe, check out the Joyride Blog! Happy Howl-o-ween!