Preparing Your Dog for Halloween 2024

Halloween can be a whirlwind for us humans, but for our dogs, it's a whole different story! Imagine, kids knocking on the door all night, spooky costumes everywhere, and all those yummy treats they can't have like chocolate, oh no!

Did you know that Halloween is one of the busiest days for vets? That's because it can be stressful for dogs. We need to make sure they're safe and calm on these crazy nights, not just physically, but mentally too.

Fireworks and firecrackers going off, loads of people running around, and constant knocking and ringing at the door can be terrifying for dogs. Unless your dog's super chilled out, they're probably going to be a bit freaked out.

Some dogs might get excited and bark at all the noise and visitors, while others just want to hide under the bed or in the cupboard. It's a whole range of reactions.

Here are some tips to help keep your dog safe and calm this Halloween…

Start Getting Them Used to Halloween

The best thing you can do is start getting your dog used to the sounds and sights of Halloween right away. Start by practising ringing the doorbell or knocking and tossing a handful of treats on the ground every time. This will help them associate these sounds with something positive. 

You can also find a sound bite of fireworks and firecrackers online and play it really softly while giving your dog their favourite toy or treat. It’s like a little party! Turn the sound off, and the party stops. Sound on, party resumes. Slowly, very slowly, turn the volume up, but only if your dog isn't bothered by it. Once they're not reacting at all, you can turn it up a notch and start the party again. 

Do this over the next few days, over and over, to help them get used to the noise. They'll be so grateful! And don't forget to put on your Halloween costume in front of your dog! Make sure they see you put on and take off masks while giving them treats. This will help create a less scary interaction than if they're surprised by it for the first time.

Keep Your Dog in a Safe Place

It's best to avoid having your dog near the door on Halloween. Either use a no-contact method for giving out candy or keep your dog safely tucked away.

Don't worry, you don't have to be the “no trick or treaters” house. You can put up a sign at the bottom of your path or stairs asking people not to knock or ring the doorbell. Leave a bowl of candy out with instructions for them to help themselves and be quiet because your dog is scared. You'd be surprised how many people will understand.

If you're keeping the candy inside, make sure it's out of reach of your dog, and be careful not to drop any on the ground. Xylitol and chocolate are both toxic to dogs.

Keep your dog in a safe place away from the door, like a pen, a gated area, or a crate. These will help keep them secure and prevent them from running out.

Finally, make sure your dog has plenty of fun toys and treats to keep them occupied. It's a great way to help them focus on something positive and calm down.

Never Leave Your Scared Dog Alone

If your dog is really scared of Halloween, then stay at home with them. Don't leave them alone to worry – it's not good for them to be all stressed up on their own. They need you to help them feel safe and sound.

Turn off the outside lights to stop people knocking at the door. Shut the curtains, and keep your dog in their favourite room, as far away from the front door as you can. Have a cuddle up and watch a film with them, with the sound turned up loud to block out all the scary noises outside.

But, if your dog's very anxious, have a chat with your vet about some medication. It's absolutely normal to ask for a one-off dose to help them cope with the stress of Halloween. It's much better than them having a proper panic attack, isn't it?

So there you have it, a few tips to make sure your pooch has a safe and enjoyable Halloween. If you've got any other ideas or experiences to share, do let us know in the comments below!