1 of 14

Write now Article Tools

Halloween brings us all back to childhood, and when we are too old to go trick or treating, the next best thing is dressing up the kids and the pets. For some of us who do not have kids, the dog becomes the target for halloween dress up time. This is a time when being creative is fun! We can live vicariously through our dog! Some people may think this is insane behavior, but a little caution paired with creativity will make it an enjoyable experience for both dog and owner.

What I have always thought would be fun is to match the existing looks of the dog with a costume. Here are some examples; a weinerdog(dachshund)already looks like a hot dog, so just add the buns, ketchup and mustard. How about a French bulldog dressing up as a french maid- just make sure the dog is a female already, we don't want to get into the doggy cross-dressing debate. A Black and White boston terrier has at least one stripe to be added to a black and white striped jail outfit. The bulldog in the football helmet is fun. Or the small white poodle adorned in the angelic halo and wings. Even more fun the pug as a pirate. My personal favorite is the Harlequin Great Dane (black and white markings) being a jersey cow, just add a bell around the neck and the pink nose and any other appropriate embellishments. The cow pies come as an added bonus naturally. I am sure you all have more ideas just keep thinking.

Another fun thing to do is to match the dog with the child. Whatever you dress up your child in can be duplicated in the dog. A ghost for a ghost, a pirate for a pirate.

A good time can be had by all, but to keep it fun here are some tips to take extra care for your beloved dog:

1. Your dog may not be used to having a costume on, be sure the size is appropriate, not too tight, not too baggy, both can be dangers. A tight costume around the legs can cut off circulation and can add not only discomfort and behavior issues, but can result in serious injury. Allow the dog to become used to the costume by having it put on and off and offer a treat to keep it a positive experience.

2. Make sure the costume allows for an opening to urinate and defecate. To keep your neighbors happy bring supplies to pick up the messes that may left on sidewalks and yards.

3. Reflective patches can be added to children's costumes, so why not add them to the dog's costumes as well, they are our kids too.

4. Be aware of the weather, is the costume appropriate for the weather, dogs can easily overheat. Carry water in climates that require this. Don't overexercise your dog.

5. Avoid small parts that can be ingested by dogs. Many costumes may have beads or other small things that can become toxic to the dog, or may become an obstruction.

6. Keep the treat bag away from the dog, and do not accept treats for the dog. Chocolate is very toxic to dogs, and some types of chocolate require only a small amount to do harm. Some treats others offer may not be appropriate for your dog.

7. Dogs must be kept on a leash, and an adult should be present to ensure the dog is handled safely. There is a lot of chaos on halloween, the more supervision the better.

8. Make sure your dog can see and hear with the costume.

Most of all, take all precautions to ensure a safe holiday, and have fun!

Learn more about this author, Lisa Kirkwood.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Dog accessories: Halloween costumes for dogs?
We want to hear your view. Write now!