Halloween is just around the corner and for some of you this may be your first Halloween with your dog. Even if it isn’t here are some tips tohelp keep your dog safe on the spookiest night of the year.

Stay home

Going Trick-or-Treating or to a Halloween party? It might be better to leave your pup at home. Dogs aren’t used to seeing people dressed up, hearing scary Halloween scream soundtracks, or seeing mechanical zombies in front people’s homes. It can be a very anxiety promoting evening for a dog. If you are heading out for the evening walk your dog when it’s light out so if you do encounter any scary decorations or people in costumes, it will be easier to keep your distance or to create a quick positive association.

Giving out candy?

Hoping to hand out candy to trick-or-treaters but your dog barks every time someone rings the doorbell? Start creating a positive association with the doorbell now! There are plenty of online resources available that will explain how with only treats and patience you can get your dog to stop barking at the doorbell. Or contact your local science based trainer for a quick consult on the matter!

You could also sit outside to welcome trick-or-treaters and forgo the doorbell anxiety all together.

Help your dog stay calm with Calming Treats or CBD or give them an interactive toy to preoccupy them in another room while you give out candy.

Identification

Make sure your pet’s collar is on with up to date identification. If they slip out the door when you’re handing out candy you’ll be happy they have ID on them.

Hide the candy

Make sure to keep all the halloween candy out of reach of your dog. Even dogs that don’t usually counter surf could surprise you! So, keep those bowls of candy up high and out of reach. Chocolate is highly toxic, as well as many sugar-free candies sweetened with Xylitol. If you believe your pet has ingested either of these, a call to your local Emergency Vet might be in order.

Your dog doesn’t have to wear a costume

Not all dogs like to wear clothing. Especially when it has wings that flop around on its back. It’s okay if your dog doesn’t want to wear a costume! If you see that your dog is uncomfortable with putting it on, or while it’s on, you can forgo it all together. Your relationship with your dog will be better for it. Which is what really matters.

The morning after

The few days after Halloween there will always be wrappers and halloween garbage scattered throughout the neighbourhood. Dropped and half eaten candy bars or small chips bags and wrappers can be dangerous for your dog if ingested. Be vigilant and make sure your dog doesn’t get into any post halloween trouble.

Happy Spooky Season!