Halloween Safety Tips for Dogs

Chocolate, Candy, Costumes & More

Halloween should be full of treats,not emergency trips to the vet. Between candy bowls, costumes, decorations, and a constantly ringing doorbell, this holiday can bring unexpected hazards for our dogs.

At bark! bark!, we love celebrating with our four-legged family members. These Halloween safety tips for dogs will help you plan a celebration that puts your pup’s comfort and well being first.

Can Dogs Eat Chocolate? Keep Halloween Candy Out of Reach

Dogs should never be given chocolate. Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which can be toxic to dogs. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate contain higher concentrations of these substances, but milk chocolate is unsafe, too.

Signs of chocolate poisoning can include vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, increased thirst, and an elevated heart rate. Severe cases can cause seizures. If your dog eats chocolate, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Before trick-or-treating begins, put candy in a closed cabinet your dog cannot access. Remind children to keep their candy bags off the floor and away from curious noses.

Sugar-Free Candy and Candy Wrappers Can Be Dangerous

Chocolate is not the only Halloween candy concern. Some sugar-free candies and gum contain xylitol, a sweetener that can be life threatening to dogs. Keep these products out of reach, and never assume that sugar-free means pet-safe.

Candy wrappers can also cause intestinal blockages if swallowed. Clean up wrappers promptly and keep trash secured.

Make your household rule simple: Halloween candy is for people. Your dog gets their own dog treats.

What to Do If Your Dog Eats Halloween Candy

If your dog gets into chocolate, candy containing xylitol, or an unknown treat, call your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary clinic promptly.

You can also contact Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661. Do not induce vomiting or give home remedies unless a veterinary professional directs you to do so.

Choose Dog Halloween Costumes With Comfort in Mind

A cute costume should never come at the expense of your dog’s comfort. Only dress up dogs that are comfortable wearing clothing.

A dog Halloween costume should allow your pup to move freely, see clearly, breathe normally, and bark. Avoid dangling decorations and small pieces that could be chewed off or swallowed. If your dog seems uncomfortable, skip the costume.

Your dog does not need an elaborate outfit to join the celebration. A relaxed pup beside a pumpkin makes a wonderful Halloween photo all on its own.

Create a Quiet Space During Trick-or-Treating

Doorbells, unfamiliar visitors, and spooky costumes can make Halloween stressful for dogs. Set up a comfortable room away from the front door with a familiar bed, water, and a favorite toy.

Keeping your dog away from the busiest part of the house also reduces opportunities to slip through an open door. Make sure your dog has identification in case they escape.

Whether your neighborhood is in Belmont Shore, elsewhere in Long Beach, or beyond, plan your evening around what your dog enjoys. A quiet night together can be its own Halloween tradition.

Keep Halloween Decorations Away From Curious Paws

Lit jack-o’-lanterns can be knocked over and cause burns or fires. Keep open flames and electrical wires away from pets.

Glow sticks, batteries, and costume accessories should also stay out of reach. Before your celebration begins, look around at your dog’s level for anything they might grab or chew.

Celebrate Halloween With bark! bark!

The best Halloween plans include something special for your dog: a favorite treat, playtime, a cozy spot to relax, and plenty of attention.

Looking for a little inspiration? Explore bark! bark! online at shopbarkbark.com and make your pup part of the season.

Happy Howl-o-ween from bark! bark!