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Dogs on Halloween: Safety, Fun, and Rescue Advice from Jerry Green Dog Rescue

Dogs on Halloween: Safety, Fun, and Rescue Advice from Jerry Green Dog Rescue

Cross-breed black and tan dog in sitting position wearing a Jerry Green Dog Rescue green bandana on a grey background with ghost and bat Halloween decorations above and a pumpkin next to the dog.

Halloween is a time for spooky costumes, glowing pumpkins, and trick-or-treating fun but for our four-legged friends, it can be confusing or even frightening. Whether you already have a dog or are looking to adopt a dog this autumn, it’s important to know how to keep your pup calm, happy, and safe during the festivities.

At Jerry Green Dog Rescue, we care deeply about the wellbeing of every dog, from those waiting for their forever homes in our dog rescue charity to beloved family pets joining in celebrations.

Dog Costumes & Halloween Fun

It’s tempting to get your pup involved in the fun, and yes, there are adorable Halloween costumes for dogs out there!

But how to dress your dog for Halloween safely?

Choose a dog outfit that fits comfortably and allows your dog to move freely.

Avoid costumes with small parts they might chew off.

Always supervise your dog costume wearing, some dogs simply don’t enjoy it!

If your dog doesn’t like dressing up, skip the outfit and give them themed Halloween dog toys instead. There are lots of dog toys Halloween-style that are both safe and entertaining. You could even support our charity and visit Jerry Green Dog Rescue Lincolnshire or Nottinghamshire and shop our pre-loved sales in our centres.

Find our centres to shop preloved

White Jack Russell Terrier stood in field looking directly at camera in relaxed position wearing a Halloween style pumpkin bandana

Why Do Dogs Hate Halloween?

Not all dogs hate Halloween but many find it stressful because of:

Loud noises from trick-or-treaters.

Strangers wearing masks and costumes.

Strangers approaching their home.

Changes to their daily dog routine.

Do dogs like routine? Absolutely, most thrive on predictable routines. To help your dog feel secure, stick to their normal feeding and walk times where possible, although if this is in the evening, keep them inside when trick-or-treaters are around and offer calm, reassuring company. If they are particularly worried on Halloween, creating a safe space for them to retreat to could help with this.

Create a safe space for your dog

Bully type sand-coloured cross-breed dog laying in crate with blankes wearing a Halloween inspired bandana looking just above camera in relaxed position

The Dangers of Halloween for Dogs

Among the biggest dangers of Halloween for dogs are sweets and chocolates left within reach.

Can dogs eat sweets? No. Are sweets bad for dogs? Yes, they can upset your dog’s stomach or even be toxic.

Why dogs can’t eat chocolate or sweets: Chocolate and sweets can contain some toxic ingredients which are poisonous to dogs.

What happens if my dog eats chocolate? Symptoms can include digestive issues like vomiting and diarrhoea, all which can lead to very serious issues such as seizures, liver damage or even death.

What should you do if your dog eats chocolate or sweets? Contact your vet immediately for advice.

Always keep treats out of reach, and consider making your own dog-safe goodies instead!

Find some dog treat recipes here

Pumpkins & Dogs

Pumpkin can actually be great for dogs, in moderation. Can dogs have pumpkin? Yes! Pumpkin is rich in fibre and vitamins.

If you’re visiting a dog friendly pumpkin patch, keep your dog on a lead and let them enjoy the fresh air.

Here’s how to prepare pumpkin for dogs safely:

Cook it plain, no spices or sugar.

Learn how to make pumpkin puree for dogs by removing seeds, baking chunks of pumpkin flesh and blending them into a soft mash.

Don’t be tempted to give your dog your old pumpkin, mouldy pumpkin can cause serious tummy upset but don’t waste the flesh when carving!

Cross-breed sand-coloured dog stood in relaxed stance n a dark background with pumpkins next to and leaves on the ground

Trick or Treat Dogs: Training Tips

Why not practice trick or treat dog training? Teach simple tricks like “sit”, “stay”, or “paw” in exchange for dog treats. It’s a fun way to include your dog in the festivities without overwhelming them, or keep them calm and distracted when trick-or-treaters arrive.

If you’re decorating, remember Halloween decorations should be out of reach, avoid candles or dangling items that could be chewed or knocked over.

Get more dog advice here

Sand, white and black lurcher laying on red blanket with black background and Halloween toys and decorations around her

Halloween Dog Safety Tips

Here are some essential Halloween safety tips for dogs:

Keep sweets and chocolate far away.

Stick to your daily dog routine where possible.

Supervise your dog costume or skip it if they’re uncomfortable.

Offer safe Halloween dog toys.

Make sure your dog microchip details are up to date.

If your dog gets spooked and runs off, a dog microchipping registration can help you get reunited quickly. Wondering how much does microchipping a dog cost? It’s usually a small one-off fee for lifetime peace of mind.

Celebrate Halloween with Your Dog Safely

Halloween with your dog can be magical when done safely. From choosing the right dog outfit to making healthy pumpkin snacks, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season together.

If you’re inspired by the love and loyalty of dogs this spooky season, consider giving a rescue dog a second chance. Visit Jerry Green Dog Rescue Lincolnshire or Jerry Green Dog Rescue Nottinghamshire to meet your new best friend today.

After all, the best kind of treat this Halloween might just be a wagging tail.

Find out more about our rehoming services

Small black and tan cross-breed puppy sat ona white blanket in a home environment looking directly at the camera wearing a Halloween themed bandana

Thinking of Adopting a Dog This Halloween?

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Where can I find a dog to adopt?”, then look no further than Jerry Green Dog Rescue Lincolnshire or Jerry Green Dog Rescue Nottinghamshire.

We have many dogs for adoption, each with their own personality and story. Whether you’re looking for a dog for adoption who loves long walks or a couch companion, our dog rescue centres will help you find the perfect match.

Every rescue dog deserves a loving home, and adopting one not only changes their life, it’ll change yours too.

Adopt a dog

White and brown Jack Russel Terrier in a sitting position in a home environment looking directly at the camera wearing a Halloween themed bow tie