Gone to the Dogs: Halloween Costumes for Canines

by Sirena Van Schaik It wasn't that long ago that I remember picking up a discounted Halloween costume. It was cute with a little hat that fit over the ears, the black jumper and a black cape. No one was going to be a cuter Darth Vader than my little one.

Of course, my little one wasn't any of my kids. It was actually my black Labrador Retriever, Petey. He looked very cute as I bundled him up, my husband sitting there shaking his head, muttering under his breath, "What are you doing to my dog," while he gave Petey the stare that meant he had to stay put.

Thinking back to it, Petey was definitely not impressed. He hates having things on him and he sat there through all the fittings with a pained expression on his face. His eyes had gone large and batty, almost like he was ready for a fight or flight situation and when I turned my back, his head, set perfectly in a "hold" position, would slowly start to droop towards the floor until the dreaded Darth Vader hat had tumbled off.

Eventually I sighed in resignation and decided that Petey was just not the costume type of dog and I gave up. Petey would be enjoying Halloween sans the costume but he would be enjoying Halloween.

Over the years, even before the wardrobe malfunctions that Petey had, I have noticed an increase in the number of dogs that go out and enjoy Halloween. Walking down the street, you come across a large family, their kids dressed up as ghouls, princesses and the occasional cartoon character, their dog happily padding along.

It has become even more apparent that Halloween isn't just for kids anymore. It seems to have gone to the dogs and dog owners around North America have joined in on the festivities. Now, you can purchase the perfect Halloween costumes from Darth Vader to Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz. You can add a treat bag for your furry companion and you can even pick up a few Halloween dog treats to hand out.

There is a huge market now for the Great Canine Halloween and it seems that everyone is eating up all the excellent supplies that are available. Dogs are enjoying the spookiest night of the year, and why shouldn't they?

Let's face it, as many times as you here, "Oh, that costume is so cute," said to the multitudes of kids, they are nothing when compared to the amount of "awws," a properly attired canine receives on the night. It becomes a night filled with treats and praise and any dog worth his own weight in gold would take advantage of it.

However; there are a few things to remember if you are taking your canine friend out for a Halloween night on the neighbourhood. First, line those pockets with treats. This will give him something to munch on and there is less chance that he will snuffle up a chocolate bar on the walk.

Second, make sure that you dog does well in public settings. Halloween can be a bit unsettling for anyone, and even more for a dog. Children are running from home to home, yelling, screaming and a dog can become frightened pretty quickly. Also, there will be other dogs on the streets too so if your dog does not get along with other animals or does not like kids, it's better to keep her home for the night. She will appreciate it much more than any of the treats and hugs that she will receive if she went out.

Lastly, keep your dog on his leash and make sure he minds his manners while he is out. No jumping and to keep him safe and comfortable, purchase a costume that doesn't drag or choke him.

After that, just enjoy the night and the fact that Halloween is not quite going to the dogs but is definitely being shared with them.