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Halloween has become a fun night for plenty of Aussie families, and lots of pets are joining the party. A good costume is comfortable, safe and easy to take off, and it lets your pet move, see and breathe freely. Here are our favourite pet Halloween costume ideas, plus a few simple ways to keep spooky season stress-free.
Before you dress up: the golden rules
Some pets love the attention of a costume. Others would rather hide under the bed. Both are completely normal. Keep these rules in mind:
- Your pet must be able to see, hear, breathe, bark or meow, walk and go to the toilet.
- Nothing tight around the neck, legs or tummy.
- Skip small buttons, bells, sequins and dangly bits that can be chewed off and swallowed.
- Late October can be warm in much of Australia, so choose light, breathable fabric.
- Practise with short sessions and plenty of treats before the big night.
- Always supervise your pet while they are dressed up.
Easy costume ideas for dogs
1. The pumpkin
A soft orange vest or a simple pumpkin-print bandana is a crowd favourite. It is quick to put on, and small dogs look especially adorable as a round little pumpkin.
2. The friendly ghost
Skip the classic bedsheet, which can cover your dog’s eyes and trip them up. A light white bandana or vest with two felt eyes gives the same effect safely.
3. The superhero cape
A short cape that attaches with soft hook-and-loop tape at the chest turns any dog into a hero. Keep it short so it stays clear of paws.
4. The lion’s mane
Fluffy dogs suit a soft, loose mane that sits around the face like a hoodie. It makes for brilliant photos and comes off in seconds.
5. The hot dog
A classic for dachshunds and other long dogs. Choose a design with an open underside so your dog can move and toilet easily.
6. The bat
Lightweight felt wings that clip onto a harness are an easy win. There is nothing on the head, which many dogs prefer.
Easy ideas for cats and small pets
7. The festive bandana
Most cats are not fans of full costumes. A light bandana in orange and black, or a Halloween charm on a breakaway collar, is often all the costume a cat needs.
8. The costume-free photo shoot
Set up a spooky backdrop with a few mini pumpkins and let your pet star as themselves. It works for cats, rabbits, guinea pigs and any pet that dislikes being dressed.
Halloween night hazards to watch for
The costume is only half the story. Keep an eye out for these common spooky season risks:
- Chocolate. It is toxic to dogs and cats. Keep the lolly bowl well out of reach.
- Sugar-free lollies and gum. Many contain xylitol, which is dangerous for dogs.
- Wrappers and sticks. These can cause choking or blockages if swallowed.
- Candles and lit pumpkins. Wagging tails and curious noses do not mix with open flames. Battery-powered lights are safer.
- Glow sticks and decorations. Chewed glow sticks, fake cobwebs and small decorations can all cause trouble.
- The front door. Constant knocking and strangers in masks can spook pets, and an open door is an easy escape route. Keep pets in a quiet room and make sure their microchip details and ID tag are up to date.
If your pet eats something they should not, call your vet straight away.
Know when to skip the costume
Your pet will tell you if they are unhappy. Flattened ears, a tucked tail, freezing, lip licking, yawning or pawing at the costume are all signs to take it off. Older pets and anxious pets may be happiest in their everyday fur. A comfy bed away from the doorbell is a perfectly good way to celebrate.
Have a happy, safe Halloween
The best Halloween costume is the one your pet barely notices. Keep it simple, keep the treats pet-safe, and keep your camera ready. For peace of mind with life’s surprises all year round, take a look at PetsOnMe pet insurance.
