Spooky season is better with your furry best friend — here’s how to keep it safe, fun, and tail-wagging!
Fall is here, bringing crisp air, cozy nights, and plenty of pumpkin spice everything! Halloween is the perfect time to enjoy the cooler weather with your pup — whether that’s a walk through the neighborhood, a costume photo shoot, or curling up to watch scary movies together.
But before the fun begins, responsible pet parents should keep a few key safety tips in mind. From tempting treats to tangled décor, here’s how to make this Halloween safe, stress-free, and full of wag-worthy memories.
Treats to Avoid: Keep the Candy (and More) Away
Halloween means sweets galore — but most are off-limits for dogs. Even a small nibble can be dangerous.
Toxic Halloween hazards include:
- Chocolate – The darker it is, the more dangerous it becomes. Can cause vomiting, rapid heart rate, seizures, or worse.
- Xylitol (and other artificial sweeteners) – Found in sugar-free candy, gum, and even some medications. Highly toxic and potentially deadly to dogs.
- All candy and wrappers – Plastic and foil can cause choking or intestinal blockages.
- Caramel apples, raisins, and macadamia nuts – Seem harmless but can cause serious stomach distress or toxicity.
- Acorns and decorative gourds – Common in fall displays and yards, but can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or obstructions.
Keep candy high and sealed, and remind trick-or-treaters not to share their treats. If your dog eats something questionable, call your vet or a pet poison hotline immediately.
Beware the Décor: Glow Sticks, Wires & Fog Machines
Spooky lights, moving decorations, and fog effects can be fascinating — and hazardous — for curious pups.
Keep your dog safe by:
- Avoiding glow sticks and jewelry – Never tie or attach glow sticks to your dog’s collar or leash. They can break easily, releasing chemicals that burn skin or cause mouth irritation.
- Keeping wires, cords, and batteries tucked away from reach.
- Using fog machines and candles with caution — sudden sounds or smoke may startle pets or irritate their lungs.
If your dog chews on or breaks a glow stick:
- Rinse their mouth gently with water.
- Wipe off any residue from fur or skin using a damp cloth.
- Watch for signs of distress:
- Drooling or foaming at the mouth
- Gagging, pawing at the face, or lip licking
- Vomiting, nausea, or restlessness
- Red eyes or skin irritation
- Cuts in or around the mouth
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your vet or an emergency clinic immediately. Even if your dog seems okay, ingestion can still cause discomfort or chemical burns.
Safe & Tasty Fall Treats for Your Dog
Now for the fun part — sharing fall flavors your pup can enjoy!
Pumpkin
Unsweetened pumpkin (puree or cooked) is full of fiber and beta-carotene. It’s great as a meal topper or Kong filler.
Serving sizes:
- Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1–2 tsp
- Medium dogs (21–50 lbs): 1–2 tbsp
- Large dogs (50–100 lbs): 2–4 tbsp
Avoid pumpkin pie filling or anything spiced or sweetened.
Pumpkin Seeds
Roasted, unsalted pumpkin seeds (in moderation) are safe for both you and your dog.
Sweet Potato
Cooked, peeled sweet potato is packed with vitamins A and C and makes a tasty, healthy snack. Spread it on a lick mat or freeze it for a long-lasting treat.
Apples
Core and slice apples for a crunchy snack (never give seeds). Add a little peanut butter for extra fun — just make sure it’s xylitol-free.
Costume Safety & Creative Ideas
Dressing up your dog is a Halloween highlight — but comfort comes first. Choose lightweight costumes that don’t restrict movement or cover your dog’s eyes, ears, or nose. If your pup resists, opt for a festive bandana or bow tie instead.
Tips for Choosing the Right Costume:
- Avoid dangling parts or buttons that can be chewed or swallowed.
- Make sure it doesn’t limit movement, breathing, or bathroom breaks.
- Let your dog try it on early — if they seem stressed or uncomfortable, skip it.
- Keep your pup visible at night with reflective gear or LED collar lights (instead of glow sticks).
Creative & Funny Costume Inspiration:
- Personality Play: A calm pup as a “Zen Yogi,” or a mischievous one as a “Cookie Thief.”
- Dog-Human Duos: Go as “Chef & Sous-Chef,” “Ghostbuster & Ghost Dog,” or “Wizard & Familiar.”
- Pop Culture Pairs: Barbie & Ken (or Barkie & Kenine), Taylor & Travis, or Scooby & Shaggy.
- Easy DIY Classics:
- Dracula Dog: A red cape and bowtie
- Princess Pup: Tulle skirt and sparkly collar
- Pirate Pup: Bandana + pirate hat
- Superhero Sidekick: Mini cape with your favorite hero’s logo
Remember, the goal is fun — not frustration. A happy tail wag beats a perfect photo every time.
A Safe, Spooky, and Stress-Free Halloween
Halloween can be a treat for dogs too — as long as safety comes first. Keep the candy sealed, the glow sticks out of reach, and the costumes comfy. And if your pup would rather skip the festivities, that’s perfectly okay — a cozy blanket and a pumpkin biscuit make for a perfect night in.
From all of us at DSDA, have a safe and happy Halloween!