Tricks for a Dog-Safe Halloween

Who doesn’t love spooky season? Halloween is full of treats for humans—but it’s also one of the riskiest nights for our canine besties. Here’s how you can keep your dog safe and comfortable this year, plus two delicious pumpkin dog treat recipes. 

1. Costume Safety Comes First

A 2022 study by PetSmart found that 76% of pet parents plan to dress up their dog multiple times during the fall season - many in costumes that match their own! Here are some ways to make sure your pet is safe and comfortable:

• Introduce the costume well in advance, letting your dog sniff and see it gradually.

• Avoid costumes that restrict movement, breathing, or vision.

• Avoid costumes that make your dog overheat - especially important here in Arizona!

• Skip dangling accessories, buttons, beads, or fabric pieces that could be chewed off.

• Never leave your dog unattended while in costume. If they show signs of stress like a tucked tail, wide eyes, or cowering, remove the costume.

2. Manage Stress 

The constant ringing doorbell and stream of trick-or-treaters can overstimulate or frighten your dog (and you, tbh). Consider keeping your dog in a quiet room or using white noise so they aren’t startled each time. Ensure your dog is secure (on leash or in a crate) when people come to the door. Establishing a routine during Halloween can also minimize anxiety, providing your pet with a sense of normalcy amidst the excitement. 

If you’re planning on taking your dog out in costume, consider how people may respond. Odds are your dog is going to look super cute and people may point, laugh or even shriek with delight. It is helpful to have a game plan for what to do if your dog starts to get overwhelmed, like removing them from the situation or bringing dog-friendly treats. During the rest of the year, regularly visiting play areas like All Dogs can help your dog get accustomed to both human and dog interactions.

3. Secure Candy and Toxic Treats

Speaking of dog-friendly treats, there are many human treats that are not safe. Chocolate contains theobromine, which can be toxic to dogs. Likewise, sugar-free candies and gum often contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that can be fatal even in small doses. Raisins from those health-minded neighbors should also be kept away from your dog. Even wrappers, foil, or glow sticks can become choking or gastrointestinal hazards. Consider walking your dog before the festivities begin and, if you can, don’t leave your dog unattended outside even if they’re behind a fence. 

If you want your dog to enjoy a special Halloween treat, consider one of these dog-safe pumpkin recipes!

Frozen Pumpkin Dog Treats (great for Arizona!)

Ingredients

• 1 cup plain yogurt

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree

Directions

1. Mix pumpkin and yogurt together in a bowl

2. Divide the mixture evenly into an ice tray or mold

3. Freeze for 24 hours

4. Pop the treats out of the mold and put into a freezer bag for storage. You can also leave them in the ice tray if you have space in your freezer!

Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Dog Treats

Ingredients

• 2 cups flour

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree

• 1/2 cup dog-safe peanut butter (Make sure it doesn’t xylitol, an artificial sweetener toxic to dogs.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F

2. In a large bowl, mix together the pumpkin and peanut butter

3. Stir in the flour and combine the mixture into a dough

4. Roll out the dough onto a floured surface

5. Cut the dough into shapes or rounds

6. Place the treats 1/2 an inch apart on an ungreased cookie sheet

7. Bake for 12 minutes