Halloween is one of the most exciting times of the year — costumes, candy, and plenty of chaos! But for dogs, all the sights and sounds can be overwhelming (and sometimes downright scary). Whether your pup is the life of the party or prefers quiet cuddles, here are a few ways to keep them safe and happy this spooky season.
🐶 Costume Fit Comes First
We love a good dog costume — nothing beats a pumpkin pup or a superhero schnauzer! But comfort and safety should come before cuteness.
- Check the fit: Costumes should allow your dog to move freely and not restrict breathing, sight, or hearing.
- Avoid dangling parts: Strings, loose fabric, or bells can be tempting (and dangerous) chew toys.
- Do a dress rehearsal: Let your dog wear the costume a few times before the big night so they can get used to the feel.
If your dog seems stressed, skip the costume and try a festive bandana instead — comfort always wins!
🚪 Doorbell Desensitizing
Between trick-or-treaters and nonstop knocking, Halloween night can be sensory overload. A little practice ahead of time helps reduce stress:
- Practice calm greetings: Ring the doorbell a few times during the week and reward your pup for staying relaxed.
- Create a safe retreat: Set up a cozy space away from the front door with toys, treats, and soft music to drown out the noise.
- Use “treat and train” time: Reward calm behavior with small snacks from our Halloween cookie sets — the perfect way to reinforce good manners while keeping the fun going.
🍬 Beware of Candy Hazards
Chocolate, xylitol, raisins, and certain nuts are toxic to dogs — even in small amounts. Make sure all candy is kept far out of reach and remind guests (especially kids) not to share human treats with pups.
If you want your dog to feel included, stock up on dog-safe Halloween cookies and treats from Big Head Barkery instead! They look festive, taste amazing, and are made from ingredients you can trust.
💡 Quick Safety Checklist
✔ Comfortable costume (or bandana)
✔ Quiet space away from the door
✔ Dog-safe Halloween treats only
✔ Leash or harness for quick control outside
✔ ID tags updated — just in case
🐾 Trick-or-Treat, Safely
With a little preparation, your pup can enjoy the spooky fun right alongside you — minus the stress. Keep their comfort first, offer plenty of love (and safe snacks), and enjoy a Halloween full of happy tails and wag-worthy treats.
🎃 Browse our Halloween Collection for festive cookies and “treat-and-train” bundles — perfect for rewarding calm behavior all night long.