Trick-or-Treating With Your Dog

Halloween Safety Tips for Asheville Dog Owners

Halloween is the kickoff to the holiday season, and in Asheville it often means neighborhood walks, costumes, and plenty of excitement. For dog owners, it can be tempting to include your pup in the fun and take them trick-or-treating.

Bringing your dog along can be enjoyable—but only if it’s done safely and with your dog’s comfort in mind. As a professional dog training company, we’ve seen how overstimulation, costumes, and crowds can quickly turn a fun night into a stressful one for dogs.

Here’s how to decide if your dog should join in—and how to keep Halloween safe for everyone.

Choosing a Safe Halloween Costume for Your Dog

Dog costumes are everywhere, and some are adorable—but not all are dog-friendly.

Costume Safety Tips:

• Avoid toxic materials or dyes

• Watch for choking hazards like buttons or strings

• Keep the costume simple and lightweight

• Make sure it doesn’t restrict movement or vision

• Never leave your dog unattended in a costume

• Consider the temperature (dogs can overheat quickly)

• Keep photoshoots short and stress-free

Do a Costume Test Run

Before Halloween night:

• Let your dog wear the costume for 1–2 minutes

• Use treats and praise generously

• Slowly increase wear time over a few days

• If your dog shows stress, ditch the costume

Just like training, positive reinforcement makes a big difference.

Should You Take Your Dog Trick-or-Treating?

This is the most important question—and the answer depends on your dog.

Ask Yourself:

• Does my dog do well in crowds?

• Are they sensitive to noise, flashing lights, or decorations?

• Do they walk calmly on a leash?

• Are they friendly with strangers and other dogs?

• Can they stay focused around excitement and food?

If the answer is no to any of these, it’s best to let your dog enjoy Halloween at home.

There’s nothing wrong with snapping a few cute costume photos and keeping your dog safe and relaxed indoors.

Leash, Manners, and Training Matter on Halloween

If you do bring your dog along:

• Use a secure leash and collar or harness

• Avoid retractable leashes in crowds

• Keep a safe distance from decorations and other dogs

• Reward calm behavior with training treats

A well-trained dog is more likely to enjoy the experience—and keep everyone safe. This is where working with a trusted dog training company really pays off.

Halloween Treats Can Be Dangerous for Dogs

Trick-or-treat candy and dogs do not mix.

Keep These Away From Your Dog:

• Chocolate (toxic)

• Xylitol (extremely dangerous)

• Candy wrappers

• Large amounts of sugar

Even small amounts can upset your dog’s stomach—or worse. Store candy securely and remind kids not to share.

A Safe Halloween Is a Happy Halloween

Including your dog in Halloween can be fun, but only if their comfort and safety come first. Costumes should be optional, crowds should be manageable, and treats should be dog-safe.

When in doubt, staying home is always the best choice for your dog’s well-being.

Need Help Preparing Your Dog for Real-World Situations?

If your dog struggles with crowds, leash manners, or excitement, professional training can make holidays and everyday life easier.

Asheville Dog Company helps dogs build confidence, focus, and reliable behavior in real-world environments.

 Contact us today to work with a trusted dog training company in Asheville, NC and make sure your dog is ready for holidays, outings, and everything in between.