:quality(75))
:format(webp):quality(75))
Halloween is a fun time for most of the family, and it’s easy to get our dogs involved, too. Of course, some dogs may not like the sights and sounds Halloween brings, but for others, it’s a tail-wagging opportunity for some memorable family time.
But what sort of things do dogs like to do at Halloween, and how can you pick an activity that suits your dog’s personality? We're here to help.
Here, we share some of our favourite Halloween ideas for dogs, from spooky parties to mellow pumpkin patch strolls.
:quality(75))
What sort of things do most dogs enjoy at Halloween?
:quality(75))
Dog Halloween ideas can get pretty broad, so choose any ideas below that suit your dog’s personality.
Halloween activities
Some popular Halloween activities for dogs include:
Pumpkin patch: Pumpkin picking is becoming incredibly popular, and many pumpkin patches are dog-friendly. Dogs enjoy some time out of the house, and maybe they’ll get a pumpkin-themed treat out of it.
Treat bobbing: We’ve all heard of bobbing apples, but filling up a kiddie pool with water and adding some dog-friendly treats or pet-friendly natural food, like apple slices and pumpkin, is a splash of fun.
Trick-or-treating: For well-socialised, extroverted dogs, going trick-or-treating with your children is a perfect night out, plus they’ll get their walk in, too.
Dog-friendly treats and food
Halloween is an excuse to eat, and you can get your dogs involved, too. Pet parents often opt for some Halloween-themed treats like:
Apple slices
Frozen pupsicles using ingredients like pumpkin puree and plain yoghurt are popular options.
Pumpkin
This will help stave off any jealousy your dog may feel when they see you or your children eating lots of sweet treats. As ever, make sure you only feed your pooch non-toxic, pet-friendly ingredients.
Party time
Extroverted, well-socialised dogs will probably love a party. Some Halloween party ideas for dogs - which match up with our dog birthday guide closely - include:
Costume contest: Pick themes like “best pet and pet parent duo”, “most creative”, etc.
Photo booth: Some pet parents said they’ve got a lot of joy out of setting up a DIY photo booth with a spooky background, and, let’s be honest, the whole reason why people dress up dogs in costumes is for the photo opportunities.
On costumes and parties, never pick an outfit that is unsafe for your dog or that they find uncomfortable. It’s always better to choose more understated options here. And always provide a safe, quiet space for dogs to unwind if you’re hosting a party; it’s easy for them to become anxious and overstimulated.
Halloween activities for each type of dog
:quality(75))
You’ll know this as a pet parent, but picking activities that fit your dog’s personality is important. For example, a mellow Boston Terrier who prefers quiet time will probably want to dodge a loud Halloween party, while an extroverted Golden Retriever may miss the trick-or-treating action if they have a quiet night in.
Here are some dog ideas for Halloween for each type of dog:
For the social, energetic types
Pet-friendly costumes
If you have children, pick a safe, dog-friendly costume that they find comfortable so your dog can go trick-or-treating with them. We discuss how to trick-or-treat safely below, but only do this if your dog is comfortable on the lead and around others.
Dog-friendly Halloween party
Similar to a dog birthday party, having a canine Halloween party with some of their well-socialised friends is a fun idea. Extra points for dog-friendly treats and party games.
Local community events
Keep an eye out for local, Halloween-themed community events that are pet-friendly. Things like pumpkin patch walks or other events should say if they’re dog-friendly or not, and if they are, it may be a good idea to bring your pooch along.
For the introverted, mellow types
Create a fun, safe space
Designate a part of your house away from the front door and the Halloween noise, but make sure it has their bed, some fun toys, and treats.
Exercise early
Beat the Halloween people traffic and exercise your dog earlier in the day, especially if they aren’t fond of crowds or people in masks.
Healthy Halloween treats, toys, and puzzles
Carve a pumpkin with some dog-friendly snacks inside, fill a KONG with some Halloween-themed treats or bake some festive, dog-friendly snacks and curl up with your dog for a night in with a film. Always pick ingredients that are safe.
Our guide on how to stop your dog barking at trick-or-treaters has some guidance on how to keep anxious, introverted dogs happy at Halloween, too.
How to go trick-or-treating with your dog safely
:quality(75))
Trick-or-treating is one of the best family Halloween ideas with a dog, but make sure yours is well-suited for it. It's best for active, well-socialised dogs who like encountering new people and pets. It may not suit a more anxious pup who wants some mellow time.
But we're sure most dogs will appreciate the walk, and with some preparation, the vast majority of them can take part in trick-or-treating. Here's how:
Keep an eye on treats and other dangers
You’ll really need to keep a close eye on your dog with chocolate, sweets and wrappers flying around during Halloween. It’s not just treats you’ll need to look for, either - things like glow sticks are very toxic if ingested, and popular decorations like spider webs can be a choking hazard.
Now, we do want you, your kids, and your dog to have fun, so don’t overpolice or be too anxious. But you should keep an eye on your pooch.
Pick a suitable costume
Never pick a costume that your dog finds uncomfortable or can’t walk in for a decent amount of time. It’s better to not use a costume rather than pick one your dog doesn’t like.
Prepare for walking at night
Our guide on night-walking can help, but if you’re out trick-or-treating in low-light, then make sure you’re keeping your dog as safe as possible - things like lights and a reflective vest are essential.
Get ready for bathroom breaks
We don’t need to tell you this, but it can be easy to forget your poop bags when you’re organising a trick-or-treat session, so bring them along!
Bring lots of dog treats
Dogs can get jealous of all the sweet smells and treats flying around, so bring lots of treats with you. Make sure you use them alongside positive reinforcement principles, rewarding your dog when they’re calm or show good behaviour. It won’t hurt to pack some water and your dog’s favourite toy, too, if you’re going to be out for a while.
Make sure your dog likes it
Only choose to take your dog trick-or-treating if you think they’ll like it. There’s no need to force them to come along, and similarly, a dog who is initially enjoying their walk and trick-or-treating may change if they encounter noise or any surprises.
Monitor if your dog likes it, and have an “escape plan” ready - if they’re pulling on the leash, not responding to treats, and are showing signs of anxiety, take them home. It’s important to track your dog’s mood and not force them to come along with you.
Halloween safety tips
:quality(75))
We have a guide on Halloween pet safety, but here are some general tips:
Avoid toxic treats
Never give your dog things like chocolate, raisins, or artificial sweeteners like xylitol - they’re toxic. Always research ingredients and check if they’re dog-friendly first.
:quality(75))
Don’t use certain decorations
Decorations are part of the fun, but avoid ones that involve cords, fake spiderwebs, glow sticks, or lit candles. They’re risky.
Watch out for escape routes
Halloween can mean anxiety and sensory overload for some dogs. Always puppy-proof your home and manage escape risk at this time of year; trick-or-treaters and loud noises like fireworks can really scare our pets.
Making your Halloween special as a pet parent
Your Halloween is about you, your pet, and what you both like and dislike. Don’t feel pressure to do something if you know your dog won’t like it. But if you feel they’ll enjoy some Halloween fun, then give it a go.
Holidays are best when the whole family can take part, and that includes our dogs.
:quality(75))
:quality(75))
:quality(75))
:quality(75))
:quality(75))
:quality(75))
:quality(75))
:quality(75))
:quality(75))