Dog Trainer’s Guide to Keeping Your Pup Calm During Halloween Festivities

Halloween can be one of the most fun holidays of the year, but for our four-legged friends, it can also be scary, confusing, and stressful! While some pets handle the parade of costumed children ringing the doorbell at all hours and the sight of gigantic inflatable decorations in the neighborhood with ease, others can become completely freaked out by it.

Halloween should be a fun time for everyone, our fur babies included.

To ensure a stress-free holiday for your pets, expert dog trainer Shannon Walker, the CEO and Founder of Northwest Battle Buddies—a non-profit dedicated to providing service dogs to combat veterans with PTSD—shares valuable insights. With a robust background in canine training since founding Mans Best Friend (Dog Training) in 1997, Shannon brings a wealth of knowledge to help pet owners navigate the challenges of the season while maintaining their pets' comfort and well-being.

Create a Safe Space

Before trick-or-treating begins, place your pets in a quiet room away from the commotion where your pets can feel secure and relaxed. This area should be free from the sounds of doorbells, chatter, and other Halloween-related noises that could induce stress. If your dog is crate-trained, consider using their crate as a sanctuary. Enhance this space with their favorite toys to make it feel like a home away from home. To further alleviate anxiety, consider playing soft, soothing music in the background. Calming music can mask external noise and create a tranquil atmosphere that helps your pet relax. Be sure to provide fresh water and, if necessary, a few treats to keep your pet occupied.

Keep Candy Out of Reach

One of the most crucial aspects of keeping your pets safe during Halloween is ensuring that all candy and sweets are stored securely out of their reach. Many popular Halloween treats, including chocolate, gum, and those containing xylitol (a common sugar substitute), can be highly toxic to animals. It's vital to educate your children about the importance of not sharing their candy with pets, as they may not understand that certain human foods can be harmful to animals. Encourage your kids to enjoy their treats but emphasize that pets should only have snacks specifically meant for them. Lastly, consider creating a designated area for your children to enjoy their Halloween loot—a place separate from your pets. This way, kids can have fun without the concern of their candies inadvertently becoming a pet's temptation.

Related: Halloween Bow Wow! 40 Funniest, Cutest PetSmart Halloween Costumes for Dogs

Beware of Decorations

Introduce pets to new decorations slowly, as they might find them frightening. If they seem apprehensive, give them time to adjust and discover the items naturally without over encouragement from the owner. Be cautious of potentially hazardous items like lit candles, rubber decorations, and fake cobwebs, which can pose choking risks. An excited dog or a curious cat could easily knock over a candle, leading to a dangerous situation. Instead of real candles, consider using electric or battery-operated options that provide the same ambiance without the risks. When it comes to rubber decorations—such as spooky spiders, skeletons, or plastic skulls—be aware that these items can be choking hazards if your pet decides to chew or play with them. Fake cobwebs, while a favorite for creating spooky atmospheres, can also pose risks. These can entangle pets, especially if they try to play with them or pull on them. Instead, consider using pet-safe decorations or creating crafts that do not have loose parts that pets could easily chew or swallow.

Choose Costumes Wisely

Choosing the right costume for your pet can be a fun and festive way to celebrate Halloween, but it's essential to prioritize their comfort and well-being above all else. Before dressing your animal companion, consider their individual personality and tolerance for clothing. While some pets may enjoy wearing costumes, others may feel uncomfortable or even distressed by the experience. To ensure that your pet has a positive experience, carefully select a costume that allows for freedom of movement and comfort. Opt for simple outfits that are easy to put on and take off, avoiding heavy or restrictive materials that could inhibit your pet’s natural behavior. Look for costumes that fit snugly without being tight, and check that they don’t have any accessories that could snag or irritate your pet's skin. When selecting a costume, steer clear of masks or elaborate headpieces. While these may add an amusing touch to the outfit, they can often obscure your pet’s vision, impede their senses, and make them feel claustrophobic. Instead of a full costume, consider using accessories such as a festive collar, themed bowtie, or a simple hat that won’t interfere with their comfort.

Keep Pets Indoors

As night falls, bring your pets inside. This not only keeps them safe from potentially frightening encounters but also prevents them from running away during the hustle and bustle. Pets can easily become frightened by strange sights and sounds, including the constant ringing of doorbells, shouts of trick-or-treaters, and the unusual activity around your home. This heightened anxiety can lead to erratic behavior, such as trying to flee the home. Before the festivities begin, verify that your pets are wearing up-to-date identification tags on their collars. Additionally, make sure that your pets are microchipped and that the registration information is current. This extra layer of security can be invaluable in reuniting you with your pet if they go missing.

Remember that Halloween should be a celebration not just for people, but for pets as well. By prioritizing their comfort and security, you create a welcoming atmosphere that keeps your furry friends happy and stress-free during this spirited time of year.

You can learn more about Shannon Walker, and her wonderful organization The Northwest Battle Buddies by visiting their website here.