It’s a spooky time of year, Halloween can be full of scary and dangerous things for your pup.
Chocolate bars, candy, raisins, costumes and visitors
It’s not all bad though, Halloween can offer great training opportunities as long as you are prepared.
Be sure to pay close attention to your dog’s body language and to make sure they aren’t feeling stressed or fearful.
Exposure to dressed up people and kids
Kids at the door for trick or treat can be a good socialization experience – depending on your dog.
Multiple people coming to the door in a variety of costumes paired with some yummy, dog safe treats would be a good way to teach your puppy to like dressed up kids. Be sure to have an extra person on hand in case your puppy wants to be further back from the door.
Don’t force them to interact with the people if they don’t want to.
Polite Door Manners
Use the opportunity to work on door etiquette. Have your dog sit politely while you (or a helper) opens the door.
You’ll want to work on this before the excitement of Halloween night, first by having your dog sit and opening the door with no one on the other side, then progressing to having a known person on the other side. Practice makes perfect.
If you don’t’ feel like your dog is ready for kids and costumes continue to practice and be ready for next year!
A Room away from the Action
If your dog is a bit on the shy side, have a cozy bed and stuffed, frozen food toy ready for them in a room away from the action. They will be happier and feel safer in their own space. Check out how to stuff a food toy your dog will love.
No Knocking Please
Some dog’s might be so fearful that having multiple people coming to the door will be too much for them. In that case, why not leave a bowl of treats on the porch so kids don’t have to knock.
Create a Halloween sign for your door letting visitors know a fearful dog lives here and to not knock.
Halloween should be a fun time for everyone!