Halloween is a time of costumes, decorations, and spooky fun but it can also be a stressful season for many dogs. Each year, I see a surge of social media videos showing clearly scared dogs while people laugh or pull on their leash to force an interaction. Dogs startled by lawn inflatables, backing away from costumed visitors, barking at moving or noisy decorations, or giving Santa the side-eye and humans thinking it is funny.
Let us be clear: fear is not disobedience. Fearful dogs do not need corrections, they need help feeling safe. Dogs do not understand your intent. Marching a scared dog up to an inflatable to show them it is harmless does not make them braver, it just increases their stress.
This holiday season, we can reduce the risk of bites by paying attention to our dog’s body language and respecting their comfort levels. Dogs understand safe and unsafe and they get to decide which is which. What seems harmless to us, like new decorations, costumes, or noisy toys, may be scary to them. A dog’s response depends on their history, socialization, and experiences. Your job as a guardian is to help them feel safe, not laugh at their fear.
Remember: No is not a behavior. Scolding or correcting a fearful dog only teaches them that communicating fear is wrong, which can lead to more serious problems. Focus on behavior modification, not suppression.
Ways to Help Protect Your Dog This Halloween
- Skip trick-or-treating: Leave your dog at home where they’ll feel safer and less overwhelmed by costumes and crowds.
- Post a sign on your door: Ask visitors not to knock or ring the bell to reduce stress and barking.
- Use a baby gate: Place one at the door threshold if you’ll be handing out candy to prevent door dashing or accidental escapes.
- Create a safe zone: Set up a quiet space away from the door with a noise machine, cozy bedding, and long-lasting enrichment like a stuffed Kong or lick mat.
- Stay calm and reassuring: Don’t yell if they’re barking. And yes, you can comfort them if they’re afraid.
Want tips for helping your dog navigate fall and winter holiday gatherings safely? Check out my post here.
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