Halloween costumes can stress out dogs
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Claire's dog as Wolfster from Super Why!, an Ewok, Darth Vader and Splinter from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. She's such a good sport. Photos: Claire Trageser/Axios
What's more adorable than a dachshund dressed as a hot dog, or a golden retriever dressed as a lion, or a shiba dressed as really anything? Turns out, all that seasonal cute may not be great for your furry friend.
The big picture: That's right. Those super fun Halloween costumes can be super stressful for most dogs.
- Many dogs freeze when you put clothes or costumes on them. That makes for an easy picture, but that stillness can be a sign of stress, according to Gary Weitzman, a veterinarian and San Diego Humane Society president and CEO.
"Only dress your pet in clothing if they're comfortable, and keep the experience positive," he told Axios. "Use treats as a reward and take your time putting on clothes or costumes. If your pet needs to take a break or looks uncomfortable, try again later."
- A simple Halloween bandana might be a better option, he added.
Pets aren't props, Austin Hale, spokesperson for Helen Woodward Animal Center, told Axios.
- "They're living beings with their own likes and dislikes," he said. "That means that if they're not happy wearing a Halloween costume, you should respect that and not subject them to it."
Yes, but: That doesn't mean you shouldn't try to doll your pup up for a photo.
- "But if at any point they show signs they're not happy with wearing one, then take the costume off; it's not worth it," he said.
How to tell if your dog isn't feeling it: Track your pet's overall body language, according to veterinarian Kelly Hood, speaking for Pet Health Digest.
🐶 Watch your dog's face. Repeated lip licking when there's no food, yawning when not tired, turning away and pulling the ears back can signal discomfort. So can suddenly freezing, crouching or tucking the tail.
🐱 Read your cat's posture. Flattened or sideways ears, a low crouch and a tail held tightly against the body can be warning signs. Purring alone doesn't necessarily mean your cat is happy.
🙈 Respect the retreat. If your pet backs away, hides or avoids touch, those are cues to give pets space. Don't wait for growling, snapping, hissing or swatting to take their discomfort seriously.
📸 Put the camera down. End the photo session when your pet becomes tense or tries to leave. Remove the costume calmly if it's safe, reduce the commotion and let them retreat. Don't hold them in place or chase them for another shot.
🛏️ Create a quiet escape for the big day. Before trick-or-treaters arrive on Halloween night, set up a comfortable room away from the front door with familiar bedding, water and somewhere to hide. Give cats access to a litter box, too.
💭 Claire's thought bubble: My dog Kima shuts down when you put any clothes on her. She'll freeze in place.
- I feel bad saying this, but we usually dress her up anyway for our family costume theme.
- But only for a quick picture, then we take the costume off.
What do you think? Do you dress up your dog? Do they like it? Email us at [email protected].