Why do we do it?
Who cares? It’s fun! But there are plenty of good reasons as well.
First, celebrating holidays with our dogs is just what we do now. As dogs regularly play a large role in the lives of so many, it’s completely understandable why we’d want them to participate in the Holidays with us. I bet most get some Thanksgiving dinner each year, and presents on their birthday or Christmas, and maybe even ice cream on the 4th of July. Halloween is special since part of the fun is the dressing in costumes. Putting a costume on your dog is extra fun.
We’re big fans of that YouTube video of folks being scared by a dog dressed as a giant spider in a train terminal. Or the Dachshunds playing fetch dressed as Minions. The best part is the dogs seem to be having a great time. But let’s face it, anytime you’re spending with your dog and focusing your attention on them is a good time for your dog, so let’s make that our second good reason to dress your dog up for Halloween.
Third, the pictures. Maybe the best part yet since you’ll keep them forever, even if the costume only lasts 20 minutes. And at least for a day or two you’ll have something great to share on Facebook and Twitter. Everyone loves a dog… and a dog in costume beats the heck out of almost all the regular stuff we suffer through when shared. Give your friends and family something unique AND enjoyable to look at.
Finally, because it’s easy. A dog in a costume is like a toddler in a costume. Everything is adorable. You can certainly look for something to match your dog’s personality or sense of humor, like if they’re a little monster or more of a princess. Then there’s the opposite option, where you get your big tough guy a nurse costume and your little snuggler pup one as a lion.
There are a lot to choose from. Just be careful when dressing and selecting. Dogs will still be dogs no matter what you put on them, so you need to make sure when they start running or playing they won’t get tripped up or snagged and inadvertently choked, etc. The other big danger, especially since it’s Halloween, is the combination of candles and your dog in costume. If they don’t knock one over with their tail, they may very easily drag their costume over one and catch fire. Just be aware of where you place candles and supervise your dog like you would anyway. Again, the idea is that your having fun and sharing the Halloween holiday with them.