Halloween is one of the most festive nights of the year — costumes, candy, decorations galore! But while it’s a treat for us, it can be a tricky time for our dogs. Between doorbells, sweets, and spooky noises, the holiday can be stressful (and even dangerous) for our pups.
Here are 7 tips for a dog-friendly Halloween to keep tails wagging safely all night long — plus a few ways to make the night extra special with Jiminy’s.
1. Keep Candy Out of Paw’s Reach
Halloween candy is a big no-no for dogs. Chocolate, xylitol, and certain artificial sweeteners are toxic, even in small amounts. Keep candy bowls high and sealed, and teach kids not to share their loot.
👉 If your dog looks left out, treat them to Jiminy’s Pumpkin & Carrot Chewy Treats — made with sustainable insect protein, packed with omegas and natural prebiotics, and totally safe for pups. A sweet way to celebrate, without the sugar rush.
2. Choose Costumes with Comfort in Mind
Dog costumes are adorable, but they should never come at the cost of comfort or safety. Avoid outfits with tight elastics, small pieces that could be chewed off, or anything that restricts breathing or vision.
Pro tip: let your dog wear their costume a few times before Halloween night to get used to it — and skip it entirely if your pup isn’t feeling it. A festive bandana or lightweight accessory is often all you need.
3. Light It Right — and Safely
Twinkling lights and spooky decor look amazing, but they can also be tempting chew toys. Keep cords tucked away and unplug decorations when you’re out. If you’re using candles in pumpkins, switch to flameless LED versions — safer for wagging tails and curious noses!
4. Plan for Doorbell Drama
If your dog barks or gets anxious every time the doorbell rings, Halloween can be ruff. Consider keeping your pup in a quiet room with calming music, or setting up a comfy crate space away from the action.
You can even give them a long-lasting Jiminy’s Dental Chew to keep them busy — it freshens breath, supports oral health, and helps reduce anxiety through natural chewing.
5. Watch Out on Walks and Trick-or-Treat Adventures
If you’re bringing your dog along, keep them leashed and visible with reflective gear or a glow collar. The streets can be full of unfamiliar scents, loud kids, and spooky decorations that might scare even confident dogs.
And remember: watch out for dropped candy or wrappers — they can be dangerous if eaten.
6. Skip the Door — and Still Join the Fun
If trick-or-treaters make your dog nervous, consider sitting outside to hand out candy or leaving a bowl on the porch. That way, your dog can chill inside without the constant doorbell chaos.
They’ll enjoy a quiet night — and you’ll still be part of the Halloween spirit!
7. Treat Them to a “Howl-oween” Feast
While everyone else is loading up on sweets, give your pup a healthy, protein-packed snack of their own. Jiminy’s treats and food are full of wholesome ingredients that support digestion, allergy relief, and skin & coat health — no tricks, just treats.
Pumpkin & Carrot Chewies or Jiminy’s Dental Chews make the perfect Halloween night reward!
Final Woof 🐾
With a little planning, you and your dog can enjoy a Halloween that’s safe, fun, and full of happy memories. Keep the candy for the kids, the lights dog-friendly, and the treats all-natural — because every good dog deserves something to wag about this spooky season.