October brings crisp walks, colorful leaves and plenty of opportunities to make memories with your dog. But between costumes, candy and a constantly ringing doorbell, Halloween can also feel a little overwhelming for our four-legged family members.
Whether your pup loves being the center of attention or prefers a quiet evening beside you, a little planning can make the season more enjoyable for everyone.
Find a Costume Your Pup Actually Enjoys
A dog in a Halloween costume is hard to resist, but comfort should come first. Choose something lightweight that allows your dog to walk, see, breathe and move freely. Avoid dangling pieces they might chew or swallow.
Try the costume at home before heading to an event. Give your pup time to explore it, then keep the first fitting short and positive.
Watch how your dog responds. If they freeze, repeatedly try to remove it or seem uncomfortable, a festive bandana may be a better choice. Your dog doesn’t need a full costume to join the fun!
Give Your Pup Their Own Treats
Halloween candy is for people. Keep candy bowls, trick-or-treat bags and discarded wrappers somewhere your dog cannot reach.
Instead, have dog treats ready so your pup can enjoy a little something special, too. Keep portions small, especially if several family members are handing out snacks throughout the evening.
Visiting Wags for a dog treat is a sweet way to include your pup in the season without sharing from the kiddos’ candy stash.
Plan for Doorbells and Visitors
Some dogs welcome every visitor. Others find costumes, excited voices and repeated doorbell rings unsettling.
Before trick-or-treating begins, set up a comfortable space away from the front door with your dog’s bed, water and a familiar toy. Give them the option to relax there rather than greet every group.
Keep your dog secure as the door opens and closes, and make sure their identification tags are up to date. If you’re taking them out with the family, use a secure leash and let them enjoy the evening at their own pace.
A shorter outing can still be a great outing!
Keep Fall Grooming on the Calendar
Cooler weather doesn’t mean your dog’s grooming routine needs a break. Regular brushing, bathing and nail care help keep them comfortable as the seasons change.
After outdoor adventures, check their paws and coat for leaves, burrs and debris. Pay attention to areas where costumes and harnesses rub, especially behind the front legs and around the chest.
Planning a costume photo? A fresh groom can help your pup look their best. Tell your groomer about the look you want, whether that means maintaining their usual haircut or trying a different style.
Make a Memory While Giving Back
Our Wags Pawkin Patch is a simple way to celebrate your dog and help pets in need.
Through November 14, visit our Urbana or Bellefontaine location and make a donation of any amount. Your dog can leave a paw print on a paper pumpkin, which we’ll personalize with their name and display in our window.
100% of donations benefit Tender Tails. Your pup’s Pawkin will be available to take home after November 14 through December 1.
Know someone who could use assistance? Visit tendertails.pet to learn more and apply.
Join Us for October Fun
Cups & Pups Coffee Social + Dog Costume Contest
Sunday, October 25 | 10 a.m.–noon | Fido’s Field, Urbana
Join Champaign County Citizens for Canines and Wags Bakery for coffee, conversation and fall fun with your pup.
Brewed Brothers Coffee truck will be there, along with a fall photo spot. Purchase a coffee for a chance to win a goodie basket, and dress your dog for the Wags costume contest, with a $20 Wags Bakery gift card up for grabs!
Wags Bakery’s 3rd Annual Howl-o-Ween Trick-or-Treat Night
Saturday, October 31 | 6–8 p.m. | Urbana location only
Bring your family and your furry trick-or-treaters to Wags for free dog treats, candy for kiddos and hot apple cider. Costumes are welcome, and we can’t wait to celebrate another Halloween with our community!
While you’re downtown during the Urbana Pumpkin Walk, stop by our window to meet Edward ScissorPaws, our scarecrow character, and cast your vote for him.
Celebrate Your Dog’s Way
The best Halloween plans are the ones your dog enjoys. That might mean showing off a costume, meeting friends at Fido’s Field or staying home with a treat and a cozy place to nap.
However you celebrate, we hope your October is filled with happy pups, sweet memories and plenty of tail wags.
Ready for a fall refresh? Book your dog’s next grooming appointment with Wags Bakery & Grooming in Urbana or Bellefontaine.