Finally, if you want your dog to be included in Halloween festivities, think about his safety much as you would the safety of a small child. Even the most well-behaved dog can be startled by a ghost popping out and 'attacking.' Neither children nor adults in costumes should approach a dog without the owner's consent. Dogs do not understand that the person jumping out at you will not hurt you they often think they can only help you by acting aggressively. Do not let your dog approach the door of a house, and stay clear of possible gags or gangs of goblins who will gather at the door.

Ghosts and witches can appear at any time. If you take your dog with you while trick-or-treating, be prepared at all times. Dogs feel enough stress around Halloween without also having to endure the discomfort and peculiarity of wearing a strange costume.īe prepared. However, if he shows any resistance, don't do it. If so, fine-he'll most likely enjoy himself and the extra attention it brings. Experiment first to see if your dog likes being in a costume. While some dogs might enjoy being dressed up, many don't. Think twice about dressing your dog in a costume. Those faces can look scary, especially from a dog's eye view in the dark. It is also a good idea to allow your dog to see and scent the decorations before dark, without the candles. Be sure those items are away from your dog's reach, or consider a battery-powered candle that does not burn. Excited or agitated dogs can easily knock over a lit candle or pumpkin. A wad of wrappers can block the intestinal tract-a very dangerous condition. If you want to keep your dog safe, make certain that sweets, including their wrappers, are kept well away from your dog. If you have any concerns at all, consult with a veterinarian immediately. Problems may range from a mild upset tummy to vomiting and diarrhea, or even death. The severity of the toxicity depends greatly on factors such as breed, age, size, and how much candy was ingested. Many candies-especially chocolate-are toxic to dogs. Be sure identification tags are secure on your dog's collar-just in case. If your costume has a mask, keep the mask off when you are with your dog because dogs can become confused when they can't see our faces.Ĭheck your dog's ID tag.

Before the kids put them on, allow your dog to scent the costumes. Your dog may see his family members as strangers once they don their Halloween costumes. By over-reassuring your dog or giving him an unusual amount of attention, you inadvertently can communicate to him that because you are acting differently, there must be something to worry about. The best thing you can do for your dog when he is feeling unsettled by Halloween activities is to act as you normally would around your dog. Also, consider having a crate or safe zone (such as a pillow or a bed) that you can direct him to when people come to the door. If your dog is timid or scared, or if he tends to love people a little too much, it is best to put him in a separate room away from the front door to limit his excitability, aggression, and chance of running outside and becoming lost. Remember also that it is a natural instinct for dogs to protect the family from strangers, and on Halloween there will be no shortage of strangers. Your dog may be used to strangers, but so many little ghouls and goblins running about may be too much. If your dog cannot come inside, ensure your dog has a safe place to go, like a doghouse. Sometimes a sudden change can put more stress on a dog. If your dog is usually kept outside, bring him in a few times before the big night to get him used to being indoors. Even if you have a fenced yard, bring your dog inside where it is safe. Dog owners may not be able to control external surroundings, but they can care for their dog's safety and well being by observing the following tips from Bark Busters:ĭon't leave your dog outside. And this is just the kids! For some of our much-loved four-legged family members, Halloween can be a nightmare-from oddly dressed squealing kids and strangers ringing doorbells to unusual commotion in the neighborhood-all packed into one action-filled night. Lots of great costumes with little monsters and ghastly ghouls at every turn, yet, for some of our smaller participants, a few unwelcome thrills and chills. Halloween brings a fun time for most of us. Keep dogs safe during Halloween-the most dangerous holiday for dogs-with tips from Bark Busters, the world's largest dog training company.

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