Halloween is such a fun time for costumes, decorations, and trick-or-treating, but some common Halloween traditions can pose risks for our dogs. Here’s a helpful guide to keep your dog safe and comfortable this spooky season!

Candy & Treats:

• Chocolate, sugar-free candy containing xylitol, grapes, and raisins: Can be toxic to dogs, even in small amounts.

• Candy wrappers: Can pose a choking hazard or cause an intestinal blockage if swallowed.

• Lollipop sticks, candy sticks, and small treats: Can cause choking or digestive issues if chewed or swallowed.

• Candy bowls: Keep Halloween candy well out of reach, especially when trick-or-treaters are coming and going.

Tip: If your dog gets into Halloween candy, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison helpline for guidance. Don't wait for symptoms to appear.

Trick-or-Treating & Door Safety:

• Frequent doorbell ringing and open doors: Dogs may dash outside when the door opens, even if they normally have great door manners.

• Costumes and masks: Even dogs who love people can become startled by unfamiliar appearances, masks, or sudden movements in costume.

• Crowds and excited children: Trick-or-treating can be overwhelming for dogs, especially with lots of noise, movement, and unfamiliar people.

Tip: Keep your dog safely secured in a comfortable room, behind a secure gate, or in a crate if they are comfortable there during trick-or-treating. Make sure they have identification on in case they accidentally get out. If your dog will be around people in costumes, give them space and let them approach at their own pace.

Decorations & Special Effects:

• Fog machines and artificial smoke: Fog and smoke effects can irritate a dog's eyes and respiratory tract. Avoid bringing dogs near fog machines or into areas filled with artificial fog.

• Glow sticks and glow jewelry: If chewed, the contents can cause irritation, drooling, and stomach upset.

• Fake spiderwebs, string lights, ribbons, and dangling decorations: Can pose entanglement, choking, or intestinal blockage risks if chewed or swallowed.

• Candles, jack-o'-lanterns, and electrical cords: Can cause burns, fire hazards, or electric shock if knocked over or chewed.

• Small decorations and plastic spiders: Can become choking hazards if dogs pick them up or swallow them.

Tip: Keep decorations out of reach, secure electrical cords, and use battery-operated candles whenever possible.

Costumes & Outdoor Activities:

• Dog costumes: Make sure costumes fit comfortably and don't restrict movement, breathing, vision, or the ability to communicate through body language. Avoid loose pieces that could be chewed off and swallowed.

• Walking in the dark: Reduced visibility, busy streets, and excited trick-or-treaters can make nighttime walks more challenging.

• Unfamiliar Halloween displays: Animatronics, sudden movements, loud sounds, and unexpected decorations can startle dogs, even those who are usually confident.

Tip: Consider walking your dog before trick-or-treating begins, use reflective gear or a light-up collar, and give your dog the option to skip Halloween activities if they seem uncomfortable.

A little preparation can go a long way toward keeping your dog safe and comfortable this Halloween. Remember, your dog doesn't need to participate in every spooky activity to enjoy the holiday with you!