Happy Howl-a-ween!

Ah, Halloween! A magical time of pumpkins, candy, costumes… and terrifyingly realistic lawn decorations. These days, homeowners have truly outdone themselves: animatronic witches cackling, ghostly silhouettes swaying in the wind, skeletons that pop up when you least expect it. We humans might giggle at a spooky tombstone that suddenly jerks, but to our dogs? It can be genuinely terrifying.

Sure, at first glance, it might seem funny to watch a dog vault three feet backward when a skeleton arm pops up… but let’s be honest: that fear is very real. Unlike us, dogs can’t be reasoned with after the fact. You can’t say, “Relax, it’s just a lawn decoration” and expect them to understand. Their adrenaline is already pumping, their body is telling them danger is imminent, and their little canine brains are not built for Halloween irony.

Most Likely to be Halloween Hot Messes:

• New puppies: Everything is new, and sudden movements or strange silhouettes can be overwhelming.

• Sensitive or shy dogs: Even an older dog who’s usually confident may find spooky decorations frightening. Sensitive and shy dogs are especially vulnerable.

• Small dogs: Height can limit their field of view, making sudden pop-ups even scarier.

• Guardian and herding breeds: Bred with a strong genetic tendency to alert to movement and sound. Pups that spook at sudden movements need extra support.

Tips for Keeping Your Pup Calm

1. Give space: If your dog shows signs of fear, don’t force them closer. Respect their comfort zone.

2. Cross the road: Give spooky lawns a wide berth. A little extra walking is better than a scared, stressed pup.

3. Pick them up: Small dogs may appreciate being carried past a scary setup so they can observe safely without panic.

4. Always bring treats: Scattering treats on the ground or in grass encourages foraging and sniffing behaviors which help dogs relax and de-stress.

5. Create a safe spot at home: For the dogs who just can’t cope with trick-or-treaters or glowing pumpkins, set them up in a safe quiet room with their bed, toys, and a delicious long-lasting chew.

Halloween can be fun for everyone, even the four-legged members of your family, if we take a little extra care. With a few precautions, you can help your dog navigate the ghoulish lawn displays with calm, confidence, and maybe even a little wag at the end.