How to Help Your Dog Enjoy a Stress-Free Halloween at Home
Halloween is a festive time of year, but it can be overwhelming for dogs with constant doorbell rings, costumes, and excited trick-or-treaters. With a few simple steps, you can help make this spooky season fun and comfortable for your dog, so they don’t feel scared or stressed. Here are some tips to help keep your dog relaxed and happy this Halloween!
1. Create a Calm Space Away from the Front Door
Set up a quiet, cozy space for your dog that’s away from all the Halloween excitement. This space could be a room at the back of the house or anywhere they already feel comfortable. Equip it with their favourite blanket, toys, and maybe even some soft, calming music or white noise to block out the sounds of the doorbell and visitors.
If your dog is crate-trained and finds comfort there, consider making the crate extra cozy with their favourite bedding and a chew toy to help them settle.
2. Keep Them Busy with Tasty Treats
To keep your dog engaged and distracted, have some favourite treats on hand. A long-lasting chew, like a stuffed Kong, can provide a delicious distraction and help keep them occupied for longer periods. If you’re concerned about treats with extra calories, there are healthy, dog-safe fillings like sweet potato, plain yogurt, or even a bit of peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free!) that can be used in enrichment toys.
Providing a rewarding activity like this can help shift their focus away from the excitement outside, making it a win-win for both of you.
3. Reward Calm Behaviour
Halloween is a great time to reinforce calm behaviour in your dog. Whenever they are relaxed or unfazed by the sounds and sights outside, reward them with gentle praise and the occasional treat. This can help them associate the strange Halloween activities with positive outcomes, building their confidence for the future.
If your dog does react to the sounds outside, try not to respond with excitement or frustration. A calm and reassuring tone can help convey to them that there’s nothing to worry about.
4. Outfit Your Dog with Calming Gear
Some dogs find comfort in wearing calming aids like a ThunderShirt or a bandana infused with dog-safe lavender spray. These gentle tools can provide a reassuring pressure and soothing scent, which helps some dogs stay calm during periods of high stress. It’s best to introduce these tools a few days ahead of time so your dog becomes familiar with them in a relaxed setting.
5. Take Safety Precautions if Your Dog is Out and About
If you’re planning to take your dog out with you, ensure they’re wearing proper identification and a leash at all times. Halloween sights can be unnerving, and even the most confident dogs can get spooked by a costume or unexpected noise. Consider putting a reflective collar or leash on your dog if you’ll be walking around in low-light conditions.
Need Help? We Offer Training Packages!
If your dog struggles with new situations or could use extra help learning to relax in stressful environments, Dog Jogs is here to support you. We offer dog training packages designed to help dogs handle everything from reactivity to general obedience, ensuring they’re set up for success on Halloween and beyond. Whether your pup needs a little extra help staying calm with visitors or working on leash skills, our professional trainers can create a customized plan just for them.
With these tips—and a little extra help if you need it—you and your dog can enjoy a calmer, safer Halloween season. By preparing ahead and keeping their needs in mind, you can create a fun, fear-free Halloween environment at home. We hope you and your furry friends have a “howl-ing” good Halloween!