Helping your dog enjoy a safe & happy Halloween

Halloween can be a fun and exciting time for us, but for our dogs, it can be a bit overwhelming. With strange costumes, unexpected knocks at the door, and lots of unfamiliar sights and sounds, it’s easy for our dogs to feel anxious or confused.

Here are some top tips to help:

Try to walk your dog before it gets dark and the Halloween excitement begins. If you get home after dark, no problem—engage them indoors with fun activities like food puzzles, training sessions, or scent games to burn off some energy.

Expect more knocks and doorbell rings than usual, so plan ahead:

  • Stick to your dog’s usual routine as much as possible.
  • Keep them occupied with long-lasting chews or a pre-stuffed Kong.
  • If it helps your dog feel more secure, use a stair gate to separate them from the front door area—especially if they’re used to it.

Even the friendliest dog might be startled by a familiar child in a spooky costume. It’s best not to let your dog greet trick-or-treaters at the door, especially if they’re not used to kids or sudden surprises. Try to see the evening from your dog’s point of view—it can be a lot for them to process.

If your dog is especially anxious about visitors, consider putting a sign on your gate or door that says: “Nervous dog—please don’t knock. Help yourself to sweets from the box.” Leave a treat-filled bowl in your front garden so children don’t miss out.

Many Halloween treats can be toxic to dogs, especially chocolate and sugar-free sweets containing xylitol. Be extra careful with treat bowls, wrappers, and anything left within sniffing distance!

Praise and reward your dog when they stay calm, settle down, or respond to cues. If they seem like they’re not listening, it might be because they’re overwhelmed. Be patient, supportive, and avoid telling them off—it won’t help and might make them more anxious.

Make sure your dog has a quiet, comfy place to retreat to if they feel worried. This could be their bed or crate—ideally somewhere away from windows and the front door.

Thrums Vets: Halloween tips with Mary
Mary - Our Certified Behaviourist

Meet Mary – our certified behaviourist

Our dog behaviour service is led by Mary Howat, who many of you may recognise from our Blairgowrie team!

Mary started working with Thrums in 2003, and has progressed to qualify as a Certified Canine Behaviourist and Certified Elite Fear Free Trainer. She also runs her own dog behaviour and training consultancy, K9INTUITION, taking veterinary referrals, behaviour consultations, one to one sessions with puppies and their owners and also providing advice for clients on choosing a puppy and before they have brought their puppy home.

She shares her life and home with her husband, their cat Harray and their new friend – Moose the chocolate Labrador.

Call our Kirriemuir team today to book an appointment on 01575 572 643.