When temperatures turn cooler and leaves start changing color, thoughts turn to just one thing: Halloween! (OK, pumpkin spice AND Halloween). That means it’s time to decorate the house, lay in reserves of chocolate, and start planning Halloween costumes. And not just for yourself and the family — you want to make sure you choose Halloween costumes for the pets in the household, too. After all, everyone should get in on the spooky fun!
Choosing Halloween costumes for pets
You want your dog to look fantastic in their Halloween finery. That dog costume will make for cherished pictures for years to come. But you also want your dog to feel as comfortable and safe as possible. So before you buy the most elaborate Halloween costume on the market, keep a few things in mind.
- Can your dog walk, jump, breathe, and sit normally when wearing the dog costume? Restricted movements can lead to injuries or discomfort. Your dog should enjoy all of their normal activities while wearing the outfit.
- How thick (or thin) is the material, and how much of their body does the costume cover? Getting chilled outdoors is every bit as concerning as overheating. Remember, a comfy dog is a happy dog.
- Does the dog costume come in an appropriate size for your dog’s breed? Dogs with deep chests — such as greyhounds or dachshunds — may not fit specific Halloween costumes for pets. Check the company’s measurement guidelines carefully.
- How does the costume attach? You know your dog best, and you know their tolerance limits. One strap may not secure the outfit well, but your dog may not enjoy having their legs stuffed into pajamas, either. It’s a careful balancing act.
The most adorable Halloween pet costumes
Every dog’s different in their Halloween tolerances. Some dogs wear clothes regularly, so a full costume may not be a big deal. Other dogs have never worn an outfit, and it becomes a frightening experience.
If Halloween costumes for pets are new to your dog, take things slow and give them some time to adjust. Start a few weeks before Halloween, and make sure you reinforce the costume with positive words and treats. That’ll increase your odds of an adorable picture come Halloween night.
Full-body dog costumes
For dogs that are old hats with clothing, you have the opportunity to let your imagination run wild. So long as your dog’s safe and comfortable, you have your pick of adorable dog costumes.
Who doesn’t love a superhero in canine form? Your little sweetheart will charm the neighborhood in a Wonder Woman costume.
Do you always have a coffee cup on hand? Why not take the opportunity to poke a little fun at yourself by dressing your dog up as an adorable Puppuccino?
If the weather’s promising to be on the warmer side, you can find plenty of T-shirt-style Halloween costumes for pets. The thin material keeps your dog comfortable while still looking their best. A sweet-faced Jailbird dog costume always gets a laugh.
Partial-body dog costumes
If your dog isn’t the type to handle a lot of clothing, you can choose Halloween pet costumes that only cover part of their body. They’re less likely to overheat, and many dogs tolerate the outfit well.
Everyone finds the humor in a dog dressed as a UPS delivery person. Even if your dog’s on excellent terms with your local delivery person, the look’s too cute to pass up.
Or perhaps you have comic fans in the family. Why not dress your dog in a simple Superman costume? Your dog can move around easily on their crime-fighting duties while sporting the iconic Krypton symbol for “hope.”
Minimal dog costume
What about dogs that HATE clothing? You’d love your pup to join in on the costumed fun, but a standard dog costume is out of the question.
Larger dogs can sport the popular lion mane without a problem. There’s no clothing to wear, just a hood to simulate that shaggy mane.
If your dog tolerates wearing harnesses, they’ll accept the Cowboy Rider without a second thought. You can cheer on the adorable look of your little bucking bronco, and your dog won’t have a care in the world. It’s the perfect compromise when it comes to Halloween pet costumes.
Non-costume alternatives
If your pets refuse to don any form of costume, you can always cut out a Ty Beanie Baby tag from cardstock and attach it to their collar. Instant dog costume! Your dog won’t have to wear a specific outfit, but everyone will remark on their inherent cuteness.
Have a stroller for your pups? You can decorate the stroller in place of a costume and have your dog ride around inside. You won’t make your dog uncomfortable with a dog costume, but you can let your imagination run wild.
