Halloween Howls & Happy Paws
Helping your dog enjoy spooky season without the stress.
Halloween is one of the most exciting nights of fall: kids in costumes, pumpkins glowing, candy
bowls full. But for our dogs, it can feel more like a horror movie than a celebration. Strange
outfits, nonstop knocking, and tempting candy within reach can turn “trick-or-treat” into a night
of stress and chaos.
The good news? With a little preparation and a few training tools, your dog can stay calm, safe,
and confident while you enjoy the festivities.
The Knock Knock Challenge
For many dogs, the scariest part of Halloween isn’t the costumes. It’s the constant parade of
visitors at the door. Every knock can spark barking, lunging, or an escape attempt.
The key is giving your dog a clear job to do instead of leaving them to figure it out. Teaching a
“go to your spot” cue provides both safety and structure. Your dog learns that each knock
means “head to your bed (or sofa, or mat),” where they’ll get rewarded for staying calm.
This is also a good time to think about your dog’s location during trick or treat. Keeping them in
a space away from the front door reduces the chance of slipping out while you’re handing out
goodies. If your pup doesn’t yet have a reliable “stay,” setting them up in a crate or a quiet room
with a chew toy can make the night calmer and safer for everyone.
Not only does this prevent dashing at the door, it also helps your pup feel secure by creating a
predictable routine amid the chaos.
Costumes and Canine Comfort
From superheroes to skeletons, Halloween costumes are fun for us, but they can be downright
confusing for dogs. Masks hide familiar faces, hats change silhouettes, and flowing capes move
in ways dogs don’t expect.
If your dog tends to be wary of new sights, spend a little time desensitizing before the big
night:
• Put on a hat or mask at home, reward calm behavior, and take it off again.
• Encourage kids to practice walking around in costume while tossing treats.
• Keep it short and positive, so your dog learns costumes = good things.
And if you’re dressing your dog up too, make sure the costume is comfortable, non-restrictive,
and safe. Your dog should be able to walk, breathe, and wag their tail freely. Otherwise, it’s
better to skip the outfit.
Dangers in the Candy Bowl
Chocolate, raisins, xylitol (found in some sugar free candies), and even wrappers can all be
dangerous for dogs. Keep candy well out of reach, and teach a strong “leave it” cue to prevent
accidental snacking.
If your dog is especially food motivated, set them up for success with a special Halloween treat
of their own like
Creating Calm Amid the Chaos
At the heart of every training strategy is one goal: helping your dog feel safe. Whether it’s a sofa
spot during knocks, a favorite chew while kids parade by, or gentle practice with costumes, these
moments all tell your dog: you’re okay, I’ve got you covered.
And when your dog feels calm and confident, you get to enjoy the night too without the stress of
barking, bolting, or candy raids.
Want to practice this in real life? Our Intermediate Obedience class is the perfect place.
You and your dog will learn polite greetings, impulse control, and calm behaviors that make
holidays (and everyday life) so much easier. Spots fill quickly, so don’t wait. This is the season
to turn spooky stress into calm confidence.
