Trick or treating for dogs: Staying safe while being spooky

Trick or treating for dogs can be just as fun as it is with kids. But it’s im-paw-ant to know how to make it as enjoyable for them as it is for you. Gather round as we share these top tails on how to not spook your pup while trick or treating.

Key takeaways

• Know your dog - if they're easily spooked (pun intended) or become anxious in crowds, consider keeping them at home instead of trick or treating
• Never force your pup to wear a Halloween costume or to answer the door with you - keep an eye on their behavior throughout the night
• Provide a quiet area at home for your dog to retreat to if it all becomes a bit to overwhelming or stimulating for them

Is trick or treating for dogs a thing?

It sure is! For some dogs, Halloween is a paw-some time of year when they’re given loads of attention just for holding a bucket in their mouths, they can hang out with their tiny human friends, and there are loads of yummy smells in the air. As trick-or-treating is often a family event for many people, it makes sense to bring the most important family member along for the ride too.

But, there are a few things to remember when trick or treating dogs…

Tips on how to trick or treat for dogs

Pay close attention to their body language

Super important point, pet people! A well-behaved dog may appear to be okay while you’re out dog trick or treating, but they might be putting on a brave face to be good. There are some subtle signs your dog isn’t enjoying they’re evening out and it’s all in the body language. These include:

• Constant panting
• Dilated pupils
• Sweaty paw pads
• Tail between their legs
• Head bowed
• Shaking

Pet parents, you’ll know your dog best. If you think they’re showing any signs of discomfort or fear, it’s time to take them home.

Don’t force them into wearing costumes

We’re not here to debate about whether or not it’s okay to dress up your pooch. However, remember to never force your doggo into wearing costumes if they’re clearly unhappy about it. For some pups, even a goofy headband is too much for them, so don’t scold them for trying to take it off or freezing. They’re a dog, they’ll look fabulous and steal all the attention regardless of what they’re wearing.

Take some Halloween dog treats with you

These can simply be their usual tasty treat, toy, or even some homemade Halloween dog treats. Not only does this help them to feel part of the party pack, but it’s a great way to reward good behavior. You want your pooch to enjoy Halloween night as much as you do! Plus, it’ll deter them from picking up any fallen or forgotten treats from overexcited trick-or-treaters.

Know when it’s time to go home

Despite your dog being happy to leave them home to go dog trick or treating, it might only take a few visits for them to have had enough. One too many scares can mean they become anxious, which is stressful for them, but also potentially dangerous to you or others. Anxious dogs can act out, so know when enough is enough and take them home before a full-on freakout.

Trick or treating for dogs at home

Regardless of whether or not you have children in your household, it’s still fun to participate in trick-or-treating from home. A bowl of Halloween candy, some spooky decorations, and a maniacal laugh as you open the front door. Heck, it’s a chance to dress up, have fun, and enjoy the festivities. However, your dog may not feel the same way.

Even the most social butterfly of pooches (potential costume idea, just saying) can find events like Halloween overstimulating and scary. Lots of strangers turning up at their home wearing masks or face paint, often shouting and overexcited, with lots of running around and sudden loud noises. Even for some humans, it’s too much!

Pay close attention to how your dog is reacting, make sure they have a safe space away from everything to hide, and know when to call it a night. Oh, and don’t forget the Halloween dog treats…

Safety tips for dogs on Halloween night

It’s important to prioritize your pup come Halloween night. The excitement, Halloween candy, and stream of visitors can be very overwhelming for a lot of dogs, so make sure they’re as comfortable and safe as they can be. Some top safety tips for dogs on Halloween include:

•  Keep Halloween candy and treats out of reach
• Make sure your decorations are dog-safe (they don’t have small pieces of plastic that could be swallowed or inhaled)
• Watch out for Jack-o-lantern candles
• Keep them inside after dark
• Provide a safe, quiet space for them to calm down if it becomes too much for them

Happy Halloween, pet people!

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