Halloween’s here with spooky fun,
Costumes, candy, for everyone!
But for your dog, it’s all a fright,
With ringing bells all through the night.
Costumed children at the door,
Bring confusion even more!Y
our furry friend can feel the stress,A
midst the chaos and the mess.
But don’t you worry, take a stand,
Create a plan with calm at hand.
A cozy spot, a treat or two,
Will help your pup and you get through!
BOO!
Halloween is a fun time with costumes, candy, and spooky adventures. But let's not forget our dogs—they must be prepared for Halloween too! The constant doorbell and costumed children can lead to stress for our furry friends.
With these tips, you can help your pet stay calm and enjoy the holiday season.
Halloween Worries for Dogs
New people, odd noises, and being left alone can cause anxiety in dogs, especially those already prone to noise anxiety. Planning can help keep anxiety at bay and ensure your pet stays safe while you enjoy your delicious candy haul.
Spotting the Signs
Dogs are remarkably perceptive animals, quickly learning to identify pre-departure cues—signals that indicate that you are to leave. These cues might involve picking up keys, wearing a coat, or performing specific movements before heading out. For dogs with separation anxiety, such cues can provoke an immediate stress response, resulting in anxious behaviors like pacing, whining, or attempting to block your exit.
Try shaking up your pet's routine a bit to ease their anxiety. For instance, grab your keys or throw on your coat without heading out—this can help them get used to the signals that usually mean you're leaving, slowly easing their anxiety. Eventually, your pet will chill out more since they'll realize these actions don't always lead to being left alone.
Creating a Safe, Cozy Space
Pressure Wraps and Weighted Blankets
If your dog enjoys it, consider setting up a cozy, comfortable space where they can feel safe and relaxed. If you know these techniques, apply gentle pressure using a pressure wrap, like a Thundershhirt or an Ace Bandage. Such wraps can provide your dog with a comforting sensation, helping reduce anxiety. If you lack experience in using pressure wraps, consult your veterinarian.
I have a friend who owns a weighted blanket. Her Dachshund Milo loves to snuggle under it, and she noticed that Milo uses it more when stressed. Dogs can enjoy weighted blankets, as they provide a calming effect similar to how humans feel comfortable. The pressure from the blanket can help dogs feel secure, reducing anxiety, especially during stressful situations like thunderstorms or fireworks.
However, safety is key. Use weighted blankets under supervision. Make sure the blanket isn't too heavy for your dog and that your dog can easily move out from under it. Try it at home while you’re there, and use it for many days to determine if the size and weight are right and to prevent breathing or movement issues.
Relaxing Glow
Imagine creating a cozy, enchanting atmosphere with glowing candles inside pumpkins and vibrant glow sticks sprinkled around! These delightful decorations add a magical ambiance to your space. Use these decorations a few days before Halloween to get your pup used to the ambiance. The soft lights can also help calm your home, which is especially helpful if your dog gets anxious with the holiday activity.
However, caution is super important when using candles around pets. Open flames can be dangerous, especially if your curious pup gets too close. Instead of traditional candles, consider using flameless, battery-operated ones to create the same cozy effect without the risk—they provide a safer option for pets while still emitting a warm, glowing light. Always place real candles out of reach if you use them. Keeping your pet safe while enjoying the Halloween vibe is always a good plan!
Music
Consider playing soothing music to create a calming vibe for your dog to help muffle the bustling sounds of excited trick-or-treaters on Halloween night.
Soft instrumental tunes or classical music can be great for helping your furry friend relax. Try different genres to see what works best for your pet, as some dogs might enjoy the gentle rhythm of jazz or the tranquility of nature sounds. Watching how your dog reacts to different music styles can help you create the perfect calming environment just for them.
Tech to the Rescue
Using helpful tools like pet cameras is a great way to check in on your dog and ease anxiety while you're away. Most pet cameras let you see what your dog is up to, and many even allow you to talk to them remotely. Hearing your voice can be soothing for your dog.
Just be careful that hearing your voice doesn't confuse or upset them more if they can't find you. Some dogs might get more anxious if they think you're in the house but can’t see you. You can try it out and see how your dog reacts. If they seem calmer, the camera can be a great tool to give them extra comfort when you’re not around. Plus, you can have peace of mind knowing how your dog is doing.
Stay Calm and Zen
Spending quiet time with your pet before you leave can help them feel more at ease. Dogs can pick up on your energy, so they’re more likely to feel relaxed if you're calm and positive. Do breathing or meditation exercises before interacting with your dog so they sense your peace and feel everything is okay.
It's also important to stick to your dog’s routine. Dogs feel secure when they know what to expect. Leave around the same time each day and offer your dog their favorite treats or toys when you go. This way, leaving becomes a positive experience, and they’ll associate it with good things rather than stress. Over time, this can make your dog feel more comfortable when you’re away.
Planning for these stressful times can create a positive association with Halloween, ensuring a fun time for you and your animal companion. Happy haunting!
As Halloween fades into the night,
Your pup rests calm—no hint of fright.
With care and love, you made it through,
A peaceful time for them and you.
The treats are gone, the lights are low,
But comfort stays as calm winds blow.
Until next year, with joy, you'll see,
Your dog is safe—anxiety-free.
Happy Halloween!
Stephanie
About Stephanie Barger, Canine Zen
Stephanie is a certified dog trainer focusing on easing separation anxiety and improving behavior. She initially taught humans but shifted to dog training over ten years ago. Her mission is to enhance the bond between you and your dog, aiming for a peaceful coexistence.
Her business, Canine Zen, reflects her philosophy on life with dogs. Stephanie views dogs as aware, social creatures who require empathy and support to adapt to our human-centric world. She teaches effective communication between dogs and their pet parents, helping them understand each other better. Her approach promotes a learning environment free from fear, pain, or judgment for dogs and humans.
Stephanie dedicates herself to helping you overcome the challenges you face with your dog, even if you feel like you've exhausted all options. She combines her teaching expertise with a compassionate approach and provides practical training strategies.
Feel free to contact Stephanie if you want to transform your relationship with your dog and create a more harmonious home. You can schedule a free Discovery Call here.
Stephanie and Canine Zen's links/handles:
Facebook (personal): https://www.facebook.com/StephanieBarger67
Facebook (business): https://www.facebook.com/caninezenusa/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caninezen/
Certifications/Organizational Affiliations
Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT)
Certified Behavior Consultant (CBCC-KA)
Certificate of Completion-Aggression in Dogs Master Class
Fear Free Certified Professional (FFP-Trainer)
Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)
Member of the Association of Professional Trainers (APT)
Member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC)
Member of the Pet Professional Guild (PPG)
Alignable Ambassador: Alliance of Central NM
Alignable Group Co-Leader: Pet Industry Group
Owner/Operator of Canine Zen LLC
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