Halloween Tips to Keep Your Dog Happy and Safe

Most dogs LOVE doing tricks and they certainly LOVE treats, so Halloween should be one of their favorite times of year.

Here are a few tips to keep them happy and safe.

Does your dog enjoy playing dress-up with the kids? Then he will love having his own costume. You can pick up a pre-made costume at most pet stores, department stores and on the Internet. Or, if you are creative, you could even make a costume for your furry kid.  Think about your dog’s personality and try to reflect that in the costume.  

Our laid back Black Lab/Golden mix, Harley, is going as a hippie this year.  You could even do a theme costume with your dog.  Cowboys, cops, vampires, the list goes on and on.  For any costume you can find for yourself, there is one out there for your dog that will go right along with it.

Have your dog’s friends over for their very own “Howl-o-ween” party.  Bobbing for hotdogs instead of bobbing for apples would be a great game.  Treats and other prizes can be handed out for best costume and best trick.

If you have a party for YOUR friends you may want to consider having your dog stay in another room. Remember some dogs may take it all in stride while others may totally freak out when George from next door comes in looking like the Mummy or a zombie. You don’t want them to get scared by something they don’t understand.

Be sure to be careful with chocolate and candy. Chocolate has been proven to be very dangerous and even deadly for dogs. Their systems are different than ours so keep away the sweet stuff.  If they get at candy wrappers and swallow any, that too can be hazardous to their health. Keep the treat bags and baskets safely out of reach. 

Be careful with candles around your dog. Some people put candles inside of pumpkins and use them as decoration for parties.  Your dog could accidently bump into where they are and knock them over, which could start a fire.  Consider using the battery operated or electric Jack-o-Lanterns if you have a jumpy little dog or a big one with a waggly tail. 

Keep your dog away from the door on Halloween. Some may be frightened by the costumes; some may just want to play with all the kids. And, some larger dogs may even scare the little ones if they suddenly appear in the doorway.  Play it safe and keep them in a separate room away from the door. You don’t want to run the risk of them slipping out while the door is open either. 

Hope you all have a safe and happy Halloween!!!