Make Halloween fun for fido

Screaming kids, scary strangers and *gasp* costumes are just a few things that might make your pooch want to hide. But don’t despair. With a few simple precautions and a little training, your dog can enjoy the holiday as much as his candy-loving owners.

Be honest about your dog’s temperament
If you have a shy dog or one that enjoys barking non-stop at everything within eyesight on walks, chances are he won’t enjoy going trick or treating with you. Some dogs are unbothered by the strange sights and multitude of strangers, but if your dog isn’t one of them leaving him home to watch the house for you will be your best bet.

Set your dog up to succeed
If you have a dog that losses his kibble at the sound of the doorbell then do both of you a favor and set him up in a different room. Leave some music running, pop him in a comfy crate, give him something like a stuff Kong to keep him occupied and rest assured that you won’t have to wrestle with him at each new arrival of trick or treaters.

Baby gates are your friend.
Perhaps your dog is simply overexcited when greeting new people but otherwise enjoys having new guests at the door. Then a baby gate will suit him perfectly. Set one up so he can see the door, but not have access to it. This will leave your hands free to give out candy, but still make your dog part of the action.

Doggie helper
Is your dog a perfect canine citizen? No jumping problem to speak of and perfectly content to sit at your side while you answer the door? Great! (and by the way good job on that training!) Feel free to have him close to you, maybe even holding onto the candy container for effect? Remember that even though your dog is well trained, he’s still a dog and will have plenty of opportunities to escape with each opening of the door. Leash him up for safety and a little extra control.

Chocolate is a no-no
Since this holiday is all about candy, there’s bound to be a ton of it in your house and possibly within your dog’s reach. Chocolate can be deadly for dogs so be careful to keep it away from Fido at all times.

Costumes!
Last but not least, if you feel the urge to dress your dog up....you’re not alone. Plenty of canines will be dolled up as ghosts, hotdogs and various other inanimate objects. Make this a fun experience for your dog and get him used to the idea before the big day. Grab some tasty treats, dress him up for a few minutes and reward him lavishly. Doing this a few times before Halloween will ensure that he won’t spend the night being a part pooper and tear off his costume.