Bulldog wearing mushroom Halloween costume sits on autumn leaves in forest

7 Halloween Dos and Don’ts Every Dog Parent Needs to Know

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Halloween is creeping up, and while it can be a treat for us, it can be a little more… tricky for our furry friends. From costume mishaps to decoration dangers, there’s a lot that could spook your dog in the wrong way.

Let's look at seven must-know Halloween dos and don’ts that’ll keep your pup safe and ensure our little aliens and fart goblins have a howling good time!

 

1. Do: Dress Your Dog in the Cutest — and Safest — Costume Ever!

Your dog’s costume is the highlight of Halloween… but is it also a hidden hazard?

Make sure their bumble bee costume isn’t a recipe for skin irritation or discomfort. Opt for something soft, breathable, and comfortable, like the ghost costume below, so your dog can strut their stuff safely. If there’s any irritation from the fit, Lavengel® is here to save the day.

 

 

2. Don’t: Let Dangerous Decorations Haunt Your Dog’s Night

Your home looks fang-tastic, but what’s lurking in those decorations?

Halloween decor can be a minefield of hazards for your pup. From lit pumpkins to tempting electrical cords to plastic skeletons that look so sinister and chewy, make sure nothing spooky gets in their way. Keep everything as dog-proof as possible.

3. Do: Treat Your Dog to Safe Halloween Snacks They’ll Love

Your dog deserves a Halloween treat, but be sure save the candy for yourself and (maybe) the neighborhood kids.

Give your little monster some pet-safe treats or - if you're really feeling festive - whip up some homemade goodies like Ammie's pumpkin dog treats below!

Stay away from toxic human sweets like chocolate or anything sweetened with xylitol. The last thing any of us wants - including your local veterinarian - is an emergency trip to the animal hospital.

 

@thedailyammie Happy Howlloween 🎃🐶 I couldn’t leave my dog out on the pumpkin fun 🎃 Recipe by Jill from @HGTV : - 2 cups flour - 1 cup pumpin purée - 1/2 cup plain peanut butter (NO Xylitol) Mix pumpkin and PB until well blended. Add the flour and mix until it makes a dough. Flatten it out until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutter to cut out the cookies. Then place on cookie sheet. Bake on 375 for 12 minutes. Let it cool completely before serving. #pumpkinseason #pumpkincookies #psl #dogtreats #dogsoftiktok #asmr #gooddog #goldenretrieverlife #fall #dogmomlife ♬ Clouds - Luke Faulkner

 

4. Don’t: Ignore the Post-Costume Cleanup! Your Pup’s Skin Will Thank You

The only thing scarier than Halloween night is Halloween aftermath.

After your dog has rocked their costume, don’t forget to give them a gentle wipe-down or bath to remove any dirt, sweat, or irritants. You would be surprised how many dogs develop contact dermatitis or a hot spot from the elastic rubbing against their skin.

If you spot any redness or irritation, Lavengel® can be a big help in soothing and healing them. Let's make sure Halloween doesn't leave any long-term scaries.

5. Do: Create the Ultimate Dog-Friendly Halloween Zone (No Tricks, Just Treats!)

Make Halloween fun and stress-free for your fuzzy shadow.

Set up a quiet, cozy spot where your dog can chill out if the night gets a little too exciting. Load it with their favorite toys, a comfy bed, and some tasty snacks to make them feel safe and secure.

Trust me, they’ll appreciate it!

Yellow Labrador Retriever wearing monkey ears lies on bed with Halloween candy bucket

6. Don’t: Forget to Pack the Ultimate Halloween Dog Safety Kit

Be prepared for anything (except maybe goblins) with an essential first aid kit for your dog!

Accidents happen, even on nights more tame than Halloween. Put together a Halloween dog safety kit with must-haves like bandages, tweezers, cleaning wipes, and - you guessed it - Lavengel®. You’ll thank yourself later!

7. Do: Follow These Safety Rules for Trick-or-Treating Like a Pro!

If your dog’s joining you on the trick-or-treat trail, keep them on a leash, stay away from lit decorations, and make sure they’ve got up-to-date ID tags just in case. Stay alert, and keep your dog close for a fun and safe night out. Bonus points if your halloween costumes are as good as Sammy The Golden's!

 

 

Now that you’ve got these essential Halloween dos and don’ts, your dog is ready to enjoy the season safely! Keep hazards at bay, have some dog-friendly fun, and don’t forget—Lavengel® is here for any minor scrapes or irritations that come your pup’s way.

🎃 Happy Halloween! 🎃

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