Halloween Costumes for Dogs

Not all dogs will stay cool, calm and collected about being dressed up for Halloween. Many will only cooperate if a costume is not terribly uncomfortable. For others, a costume might be fine, but anything that resembles a hat will have to go. There are also dogs who really enjoy being dressed up. They love the attention that goes along with it and they seem to think it's a perfectly natural thing to do.

Here's a few things to remember when dressing your dog for Halloween....

When wearing a costume, can the dog see and breathe easily? A costume should not interfere with the dogs vision, hearing or breathing - NO masks.

Check the fit around the costume neckline to make sure it's not too tight.

Watch for chewing, pawing, or signs of discomfort while wearing a costume.

If you're making a pet costume, use a lightweight fabric that won't cause a dog to become over-heated.

Don't put beads, loose dangling accessories or other small objects on a costume.... nothing that can be chewed and swallowed or be a choking hazard.

A costume should not drag on the floor so that your dog can't walk without stepping on it.

Never leave a dog wearing any kind of costume alone and unatteneded.

If your dog gets nervous and upset and just does not like the idea of being dressed, forget the costume idea. A simple doggy size cotton t-shirt would be more comfortable. Or... just get a colorful Halloween print collar or bandana instead.

Pet Costume Styles...

Halloween costumes made especially for dogs are designed to stay in place, fit comfortably, and allow unrestricted movement.

The simplest pet costumes include a hat or a headpiece plus a cape, or some type of collar or ruffle. These two-piece sets make it easy to dress your dog as a witch, a devil, a vampire, a bug.... even as Uncle Sam.

Pant or jumpsuit type costumes fit over a dog's front legs. Some have little arms and legs attached to give the illusion that the dog is standing upright. They're available as super heroes, pirates, brides, cowboys, rag dolls, and other cute characters. Many of these costumes include a head piece to complete the look.

Pet costumes that fit like a jacket or vest can transform dogs into a bumble bees, firemen, pirates, and pumpkins!

Hats, collars, and bandanas like these are simple but cute alternatives to Halloween costumes.

Halloween Black Witch Hat with Orange Pig Tails (One Size Fits Most; Black; Orange)

Halloween night can be stressful for pets.
See A Safe and Sound Halloween.

Although Halloween night is a time to keep your dogs at home, safe and sound, there are many
pet parades, fall festivals and costume contests to enjoy with your dog during the month of October.
See Halloween Happenings for Dogs.