If you are looking for some cute dog Halloween costumes this October, we've got a perfect list for you.
And at the end of the day, a Halloween dog costume needs to be comfortable for your dog so he barely notices and durable so you can use it again next year. Otherwise, what's the point?
We all love the idea of dressing our dogs in elaborate costumes and taking them out trick o’treating with the whole family.
The reality is that most dogs are not fans of the spooky season, with an overload of sensations, sounds, and crowds. If this is your first Halloween with your dog, read our ‘How to keep your dog happy on Halloween’ post first.
But if you know your pooch is happy to come with you to your friend’s outdoor Halloween camping party or greet little Vampires and Ghouls at the door, here are some of the best dog Halloween costumes that give you value for money and are unlikely to be shredded.
We start with the easiest and most comfortable outfits and then move on to slightly trickier fares.
1. The Simple Classic Pumpkin Jumper
If your dog isn’t used to wearing outfits with a whole load of different bells and whistles, you may want to start with a simple jumper style outfit.
And if you are going to go with a classic style, you might as well go with a classic outfit like the pumpkin.
It has the added benefit that it’s easy to put on and off, and on a cold October night, adds extra warmth when you go around trying to trick people out of chocolate and candy.
2. The Halloween Dog Bandana: For The Dog That Hates Clothes
If even a jumper is too much for your four-legged friend, don’t worry. You don’t have to completely give up on getting that perfect Instagram Halloween costume post.
A Dog bandana has the advantage that they tend to be the cheapest Halloween dog costume you can find and is no more stressful on your dog than wearing a collar.
With different styles available, and size adjustable, you don’t even have to size up your dog’s chest, making this an easy purchase.
3. The Doggy Tuxedo: All Year-round, All-Purpose Class
Tuxedo dog outfits tend to be a little more expensive, but unlike the other Halloween Dog outfits, can be used throughout the year.
Have a wedding you need to go to? Anniversary? Birthday Party? Christmas celebration? Bring out the Tuxedo!
Sure you need to make sure it fits the size of your dog, but it’s really nothing more than a T-shirt with a bandana. It’s comfortable for the dog, and you’ll have the best looking date to the party, we promise.
If anyone asks what their Halloween Costume is, just say he’s James Bond. Simple.
4. Witch Dog outfit: play match-up with your own costume
What’s the most common outfit for Halloween? Witches and Wizards have to be right at the top of the list. But if the thought of putting a whole cape or jumper on is not an option, how about Option B: The hat.
Now we feel it’s only fair to warn you that some dogs are not comfortable with wearing hoods. This is something you either know about your dog, or you will need to test out.
But if your pooch is used to wearing dog rain jackets that cover their head, or a hooded outfit, then a cute little witches hat will make everyone aww and aaah in all the right places.
5. The Convict dog outfit: Keeping them warm and comfortable
Before you buy you do need to measure your dog’s chest, neck, and back length, but once you do, this is easily one of the most comfortable Halloween outfits for dogs you can buy.
It’s really just an extended version of the pumpkin jumper, all set in breathable materials that will ensure your dog doesn’t overheat – an important feature if you have a larger dog.
The added benefit of a hooded outfit is that they don’t have to wear the hood, especially as not all dogs like their heads covered. Some dogs find it soothing and might enjoy drowning out the unusual noise around them.
6. The Superhero costume: Only Your Dog Can Save Halloween!
We had to put a Superhero dog outfit on our list of best Halloween doggy costumes because… Just look at them! So cute, we could die.
These outfits tend to be a little more elaborate. If this is the first costume you’ve ever bought your dog, don’t – try a simple T-shirt or Jumper design first, and gradually move to these.
But if your dog is used to playing dress-up, and you know won’t destroy the extra frills, there’s nothing wrong with getting a little more creative.
Just take the measurements carefully and make sure it’s not tight around the neck and front legs.
7. The Bat Wings: For the dog who loves playing dress up
A superhero dog costume may come with more bells and whistles, but the bat wings require a very soft-tempered smaller dog.
We like the simplicity of it. For the most part, most dogs will be happy to sit there whilst you clasp this around their chest and collar.
But whether they will be happy to keep it on is another question. And one you can only answer by trying it on your dog. We know that our pooch is happy to wear a million bandanas and jumpers, but if he can reach for the wings, they will be chewed before we can say ‘Halloween.’
On the other side, Doggy Bat Wings are perfect for a puppy who you are getting used to outfits. It’s easy to put on, comfortable, but a little bit unusual when they move so they get used to having something on their backs.
Should I buy a Halloween Dog Costume?
Here at RuffRascals we love to promote the ideas that there’s nowhere we go that our dogs can’t come along with us.
Usually, we write about camping, cycling, and hiking, but even we have to accept that most of the time our four-legged friend has to fit around our lives, including the craziness of Halloween.
No, you don’t have to buy a Halloween Dog Costume, but yes, they can serve more practical purposes:
- Keep the dog warm on late night walks if they have to come trick o’treating with you
- Keep the dog warm at the garden Halloween party
- Make your dog seem friendly to children and adults around
Let’s not forget. Not everyone loves dogs, and some can be uncomfortable if you bring your Doberman or Pitbull out for a walk. You know they are friendly, but other people don’t. A cute bandana can go a long way to put people at ease.
What to look for in a Halloween Dog Costume
Comfort, comfort, and comfort. Dogs, generally, don’t need extra clothes, unless you have very specific breeds. So if you are going to squeeze your pup in a ghostly jumper, make sure it fits.
If it has extra stretch even better, but always measure the neck, chest, and back length before you buy. If in doubt, buy a little bigger rather than too small.
Personally, make sure that you don’t break the bank to buy an outfit they wear only once a year. Find a cute, comfortable and cheap Halloween costume that will make your pooch happy, big or small.
