Ah, Halloween—the magical time of year when we dress our dogs in costumes they never asked for. We think it’s cute. They can’t verbally protest. Before you turn your Pug into a walking food pun, here are five tips for picking out a “paw-some” costume you and your pooch will enjoy, pus 10 “wag-tastic” ideas that will make them the talk of the canine catwalk.
Comfort Over Cuteness
If your dog can’t do zoomies in their costume, it may be time to rethink. Your chihuahua might look cute as a hot dog, but if it’s itchy or too tight, your dog will spend most of their time rolling around in the dirt trying to get it off. Look for costumes made of breathable materials that allow for easy movement or consider a dashing superhero cape that is easy on the fur.
Safety First
No one wants to spend Halloween at the emergency vet, especially your dog. When choosing or crafting a costume, make sure it doesn’t have small parts that could turn into impromptu chew toys. Trim capes and trains so your dog doesn’t take an embarrassing nose plant.
Choose the Right Size
When choosing a costume, it’s crucial to get the right size. Measure your dog’s neck, chest and length, and check the sizing guide. Too tight, and your dog will look like a stuffed sausage. Too loose, and they’ll leave a fabric trail behind them.
Consider Your Dog’s Personality
When choosing a costume consider your pup’s personality. If they are a diva, a princess costume might be perfect. If your dog has to sniff everything, maybe a Sherlock “Bones” costume. Consider coordinating your costume with your dog’s. Imagine strutting down the street as a duo — say, you as a classic witch and your dog as a broom. Just remember, it’s all in good fun, so keep it light-hearted. Your dog deserves to strut with dignity.
Practice Makes ‘Paw-fect’
Before the big day, let your dog try on their costume a few times. This helps them get used to the feel of the outfit and helps you avoid any Halloween night drama. Nobody wants to spend Oct. 31st wrestling their pug into a pumpkin suit. A little pre-game trial ensures they’re as comfortable as a dog dressed as a lobster can be. Plus, you can take pup portraits!
Spook-tacular Costume Ideas
Turn your little pumpkin into the cutest gourd on the porch. This adorable pumpkin costume from Chewy goes on like a dog sweater so it’s comfy and safe.
Da-da Da-Da DA-Da Bat dog! A simple cape with bat wings can transform your dog into the hero Gotham deserves. This one is lightweight, and you won’t have to engage in a WWW fight to get it on.
Sure, it’s a little cliché but adorable, nonetheless. This version straps on like a harness so is less likely to garner you the sorrowful puppy eyes look.
You can easily DIY a ghost costume but to ensure safety, purchasing one may be the better option. This is cute, lightweight and easy to put on.
There’s no need to fear. Your super dog is here! This is perfect for a dog that’s constantly on the go. Remember you don’t need the entire costume. If your dog hates clothes, a cape alone will suffice.
A laid-back dog can advertise their dedication to the Age of Aquarius with a tie-dye bandana.
Pick your pup’s favorite dinosaur and show everyone at the dog park how ferocious they can be. If you prefer to DIY it, add some foam spikes to their favorite green sweater.
You don’t have to go overboard with your pup’s pirate costume. A bandana and a hat will help them find buried treasure.
Bzzz! Your dog might not be a busy bee, but they’ll sure look like one. It’s the buzz-worthy costume of the year!
For the intellectual hound, a detective hat and a plaid cape will do. Just don’t expect them to solve any mysteries—finding the buried bone is hard enough.
Show Off at the Dog Park
Once your pup is dressed to impress, why not show off at the dog park? Don’t have one nearby? Make the move to Marvida. We’ve got a beautiful dog park where canines can strut their costumed stuff. Visit us, tour our model homes and start planning next year’s “spook-tacular” outfit.
