Is Your Dog Ready for Halloween? How to Survive Trick-or-Treaters Without Losing Your Sanity (Or Your Dog's!)"
Halloween is a fun time for humans – costumes, sweets, and spooky fun. But for our dogs? Well, let’s just say it can feel like an absolute horror show for them! The doorbell constantly ringing, strangers in bizarre outfits, and excitement everywhere. If your dog isn’t a fan of these surprises, it’s time to get them ready for a (mostly) stress-free Halloween. Here are some tips – with a little humour – to help your dog (and you!) survive the night.
1. Costume Confusion: When the Witch Is Actually a Neighbour Your dog might be a bit confused when they see what looks like a miniature Frankenstein on the doorstep. Help them out by introducing them to people in funny outfits beforehand.
To dodge costumes and fireworks, try taking your dog for a walk before the Halloween festivities kick off. It’s best to keep it calm, and don’t forget to bring some extra tasty treats! If you spot a ghost or goblin (aka trick-or-treaters) on your walk, simply turn around, reward your dog, and make a swift escape – no need for ghoulish encounters that might spook your pup!
2. Practice Your “Doorbell Zen” Does your dog react like it’s the end of the world every time the doorbell rings? You’re not alone! Start practicing now by ringing the bell and rewarding your dog for staying calm. After a while, they’ll see it more like background noise and less like an alarm for intruders.
3. Set the Scene: Spooky but Safe Create a quiet, comfortable space for your dog away from the door. Some dogs appreciate the chaos, but most would prefer to skip the parade of skeletons. Set up their favourite blanket, toys, and a treat-filled puzzle to keep them distracted. Bonus points if you put on some calming music – something with less “Monster Mash” vibes.
4. Don’t Forget the Treats... for Your Dog! While you’re handing out chocolates (which your dog definitely can’t have!), keep some of their favourite treats handy. Reward calm behaviour and make Halloween a little less "trick" and a lot more "treat" for your pup.
5. Beware of Escape Artists With the door opening and closing all night, even the best-behaved dogs might make a break for it. Unless your dog is auditioning for Houdini: The Canine Edition, keep them safe by using a baby gate or keeping them in another room.
6. Costumes Are for Humans (And Maybe Cats)
As tempting as it is to dress your dog like a vampire, they probably won’t appreciate the new look. Costumes can make them uncomfortable or even cause irritation. Let’s leave the dressing up to the humans, and keep your dog comfy and able to express their usual behaviour.
By the end of the night, your dog might not understand why people were dressed as pumpkins, but they’ll appreciate all the treats and calm vibes. You’ll both survive Halloween without any real frights! 🎃
Need more tips on keeping your dog calm for Halloween or other festive occasions? Get in touch – I’m happy to help!
Add comment
Comments