Halloween and Dogs: How to Keep Things Fun (and Safe!) for Your Pup

Halloween is creeping up, and while it’s all about costumes, treats, and a bit of spooky fun for us humans, it can be a tricky night for dogs. Between the strange sights, sounds, and smells, it’s easy for pups to get overwhelmed.

Here’s how to make sure your furry friend enjoys a stress-free, tail-wagging Halloween — no scares, just smiles! 🐾💚


Keep the Scares for the Costumes

From doorbells ringing to strangers in masks, Halloween night can be confusing (and scary!) for dogs.

✨ Tips for a calm pup:

  • Keep your dog in a quiet, safe space away from the front door if you’re expecting trick-or-treaters.

  • Close windows and curtains to muffle noise and flashes from decorations.

  • Play soft music or TV in the background for comfort.

  • Offer a favourite toy or hypoallergenic treats to help them relax, something gentle on tummies during an exciting night! 🌱

Dress-Up... If They Want To

We love a good dog costume, but not every pup enjoys it. Before you pop your dog into that pumpkin outfit, make sure they’re comfy.

🐶 Look for signs of stress: stiff posture, tucked tail, trying to wriggle free. If your dog seems unhappy, skip the costume and opt for a festive bandana instead. (They’ll still steal the show!)

Pro tip: Choose breathable, non-restrictive materials and avoid accessories that could be chewed or tangled.


Keep Human Treats Out of Paw’s Reach

Chocolate, lollies, and sugar-free sweets (especially those containing xylitol) are toxic for dogs. Even small amounts can make them seriously ill.

Make sure your pup can’t get into the treat bowl or any wrappers left lying around, and remind trick-or-treaters that your dog’s treats come from the Little Green Dog stash only 😉


Be Mindful of Decorations

Halloween decorations can be spooky and sneaky hazards for curious pups.

⚠️ Watch out for:

  • Candles or lit decorations, wagging tails and flames don’t mix!

  • Small decorations that can be swallowed.

  • Hanging cobwebs or strings that could tangle.

Try battery-operated candles for a pet-safe glow-up instead ✨


Trick-or-Treat Traffic

With the door opening and closing all evening, there’s always a risk of an accidental escape.

Keep your dog safely inside, and make sure they’re wearing a secure collar and updated ID tag (just in case).


Eco-Friendly Halloween Tips

Halloween doesn’t have to mean heaps of waste. A few small swaps make it easy to celebrate sustainably:

  • Use home-compostable poop bags on your evening walk.

  • Repurpose old clothes or fabrics for DIY costumes.

  • Reuse decorations instead of buying new ones, get creative with what you have or find treasures at your local op shop.

  • Hosting a party? Skip disposables and use real or biodegradable dishes, with labelled cups to cut down on waste.

Cleaner, greener, and just as fun! 🎃🌱


💚 Final Woof

Halloween should be full of treats — not tricks — for our four-legged friends.

By keeping things calm, safe, and sustainable, you’ll make sure your pup enjoys the night as much as you do (minus the sugar rush!).

So pop on that spooky playlist, sneak your dog a tummy-friendly treat, and have a happy, wag-filled Halloween! 🐕💚