Preparing Your Furry Friends For Halloween

Whether you have an NSD puppy in training, an NSD Service dog or a pet in your home thisYellow lab dressed in a lion costume for halloween. Halloween, it is important to prepare in advance to make sure everyone enjoys this holiday.

Know Their Limits

Every dog is different. Some dogs may be comfortable with the spooky sights and sounds of Halloween, and others may not. Set them up for success! Don’t push them out of their comfort zone. The doorbell/knocking may be too overstimulating for your dog, so try sitting on the porch or leaving a bowl outside instead. For dogs that are nervous around people in costumes, make sure to get your walk out of the way early and close your curtains before trick or treating starts. If you have a puppy in training, keep any training session short and positive, then give them time to rest!

Getting Dressed Up

Is your furry friend participating in the fun with their own costume? Be sure to make it a positive experience;

  1. Pick a costume that fits comfortably and does not restrict their movements in any way.
  2. Avoid costumes that will cause them to overheat.
  3. Avoid costumes with tiny pieces that your dog may be tempted to eat.
  4. Try the costume on in advance so you can slowly condition them to their new outfit and prepare them to wear it for longer periods. (Don’t forget to reward them lots during this process!)

Reflective gear can also help keep your furry friend safe if they are going out after dark on Halloween. For more tips on picking the right costume, check out this blog from our friends at Ren’s Pets.

Practice Their Skills

White standard poodle in a Lowe's costume for halloweenPracticing basic obedience skills before Halloween will help keep your furry friend safe! Loose leash walking skills, “drop it” and “leave it” are important if your friend is coming trick or treating with you. If they are staying home to hand out candy, practice “wait” and door manners to make it easier to open the door for trick-or-treaters.

*If you have an NSD puppy in training, please refer to your training manuals and Google Classroom for more info and contact your trainer with any Halloween-related questions.