How To Keep Your Dog Calm on Halloween
Halloween can be a magical time for us, full of costumes, treats, and spooky fun, but for dogs, it can quickly turn into an overwhelming night. Strange faces, constant door knocks, and unfamiliar noises can leave pups feeling anxious.
The good news? With a few simple steps, you can help your dog feel safe during the spooky season.
If you’re wondering how to keep your dog calm on Halloween, you’ll need to create a safe, quiet space away from the doorbell, consider noise-reducing tools, like the Hush Muff, and maintain familiar routines to help your pup feel secure amid the chaos.
Here’s a closer look at how you can make your dog feel better on Halloween.
Why Dogs Hate Halloween
Humans may love Halloween, but it can be a stressful evening for our canine companions.
Masks Can Be Scary
Dogs rely on familiar human shapes and facial expressions to feel safe. Sudden changes, like people in costumes, masks, or exaggerated outfits, can be confusing or frightening.
Unpredictable Noise and Activity
A study revealed that 73% of dogs exhibit anxiety-related behaviours, with noise sensitivity being the most common trigger.
Doorbells ringing constantly, knocks at the door, and excited trick-or-treaters create a noisy, unpredictable environment. Dogs are naturally sensitive to sudden sounds, and these disruptions can trigger anxiety or reactive behaviour.
Dangerous Treats
Chocolate, sweets, and even sweet wrappers pose a serious risk to dogs.
Certain ingredients, like theobromine and xylitol, are toxic, and swallowing wrappers can lead to dangerous blockages.
Costumes Aren’t Always Comfortable
Dressing up a dog can seem cute, but not every dog enjoys wearing a costume. Tight accessories, noisy parts, or heavy outfits can make dogs physically uncomfortable.
Masks, costumes, loud doorbells, and toxic treats can make Halloween night confusing, uncomfortable, and even dangerous for our furry friends.
How To Keep Your Dog Calm on Halloween: Top Tips
Halloween can be an overwhelming time for dogs, but with a few simple strategies, you can help your pup feel calm and comfortable throughout the evening.
1. Stick to Routines and Tire Them Out
Maintaining your dog’s regular routine can help reduce stress amid the excitement of Halloween. Keeping walks, meals, and playtime at their usual times provides a sense of stability and familiarity.
A well-exercised dog is generally calmer and less reactive. Research from 2021 found that sled dogs undergoing regular, structured exercise were less reactive and more relaxed.
Taking your dog for a long walk, engaging in play, or using interactive toys earlier in the day can help them remain calm during the evening’s noise and activity.
2. Create a Calm, Secure Environment
Providing a safe retreat is one of the most effective ways to help your dog remain calm during Halloween.
Choose a quiet area away from the front door and trick-or-treaters, and make it comfortable with their bed and favourite toys. Playing soft, calming music can also help mask the sounds of visitors and reduce anxiety.
For dogs sensitive to noise, the Hush Muff can be particularly helpful. It's thoughtfully designed, snug fit gently muffles sudden sounds while providing a sense of comfort, helping to ease stress during loud or unpredictable moments.
You may want to consider leaving a friendly note for visitors, asking them not to knock if your dog is nervous, another simple way to minimise evening pressure.
The Hush Muff gently muffles sudden noises, offering comfort and calm for noise-sensitive dogs
3. Danger Zones: Treats, Decor & Costumes
Halloween treats, decorations, and costumes can all present hazards for pets if not managed carefully.
Keep sweets, chocolate, raisins, and potentially dangerous decorations, such as glowsticks, well out of your dog’s reach. Move pumpkins and candles to safe locations, and consider using electric candles instead of open flames to prevent burns or accidents.
If you plan to dress your dog, make sure the costume doesn’t restrict their movement, sight, or breathing, and remove anything that could be a choking hazard.
For dogs that aren’t fans of outfits, a festive bandana or collar is a safe and comfy alternative that still lets them join in the fun.
4. Dressing Up? Keep It Fun and Comfortable
Following on from the above, if you’re planning to dress your dog up for Halloween, make sure they’re happy to wear their costume! Some dogs don’t mind being dressed up, while others find it uncomfortable or confusing. The key is to keep it positive.
Introduce the costume a few days in advance and reward your dog with treats and praise as they get used to it. Keep an eye on their body language. Signs like yawning, panting, or trying to shake off the outfit mean they’re not enjoying it.
If that’s the case, skip the costume and opt for something simple, like a Halloween-themed collar instead. The goal is for your dog to feel relaxed and confident, not spooked, as they join in the fun.
For dogs that aren’t fans of outfits, a festive bandana or collar is a safe and comfy alternative that still lets them join in the fun.
5. Monitor and Reward Calm Behaviour
Keep an eye on your dog’s reactions throughout the evening. If they show signs of anxiety, offer gentle reassurance and move them to a quiet space where they can feel safe and relaxed.
Reward calm behaviour whenever you see it. Praise your dog for settling, staying relaxed, or responding to cues. Avoid scolding anxious behaviour, as this can make stress worse and undermine their confidence.
For extra support, Soothe and Settle stock a range of natural calming supplements, such as the Scullcap & Valerian tablets. These trusted herbal remedies gently ease tension and promote relaxation without causing drowsiness or affecting your dog’s muscles.
If you’re considering supplements for your dog, always speak to your vet first, especially if your pet has underlying health conditions or is taking medication.
How Can We Help
Halloween can be a confusing time for dogs, but the right preparation can help them feel calm and settled throughout the evening.
Remember that all dogs are different, as what soothes one might not work for another. So take the time to find the approach that best suits your pup’s personality. A little patience, reassurance, and understanding can make all the difference.
If your dog struggles with sudden noises, consider trying the Hush Muff. Designed and tested with comfort and safety in mind, it muffles loud sounds, helping dogs feel secure in noisy environments.
Trusted by owners around the world, it’s a simple way to support your dogs of all sizes on Halloween, as well as throughout the year.
Explore our Hush Muff collection and find the perfect one for your furry friend today!
