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the head may frighten your dog. This fear reaction can unsettle dogs and be dangerous for trick or treaters. Scared dogs, even the nicest ones, may growl and bite when they feel threatened.
If you do decide to venture out with your dog, make sure they are on a secure leash. Keep them close to you at all times( no retractable leashes). Be vigilant as you observe your surroundings and assess people approaching you.
Guard against friendly, excited children who want to pet your dog. Too much physical contact from strangers who do not look like normal humans, combined with the natural desire to protect their owners, can instigate an aggressive reaction from dogs.
DRESS CAREFULLY
You may want to dress your dog for Halloween, but make sure your dog wants to. Many dogs aren’ t comfortable wearing costumes. Be on the alert for subtle signs of anxiety, such as holding their tail low or tucking it between their legs, keeping their ears back, licking their lips, yawning, pacing, shaking, panting, widened eyes( showing the whites) or dilated pupils.
If your pet appears content in a costume, ensure it is comfortable and safe. Costumes should be loose enough to provide freedom of movement, but not loose enough to trip up little feet. On the other hand, costumes that hair dyes or paints that your pet could lick off their fur, because they may be toxic if ingested. Check the label of any such product to ensure it is non-toxic if you absolutely must use it. Lots of pet owners opt for Halloween-themed bandanas or collars as a safe yet stylish way for their pet to celebrate the holiday.
PROVIDE YOUR PET WITH A CALM, SECURE AREA TO STAY
Dogs that stay at home are not always fans of the neighborhood candy hunt. The doorbell constantly rings and strangers in weird costumes invade their domain.
Too many sights! Too many smells! Too many sounds! Even dogs that normally love children can be thrown off by the constant ring of the doorbell or knocking, the sheer number of visitors, and the weird appearance of their human friends.
“ So many people invading your dog’ s territory can be problematic.”
So many people invading your dog’ s territory can be problematic. A strange-looking person is trespassing on their home turf, which automatically sets off your dog’ s protective canine defense mechanism. Then the strangelooking person gets close to you( your dog’ s favorite person) as they reach for candy, which further heightens your dog’ s defensive tendencies. What happens if your dog gets so protective, scared, or nervous that he barks, growls, or even snaps at a trick or treater?
Unless your dog is extremely mellow, let them rest in a room away from the frenzy with the door closed. Turn on are too tight can restrict breathing and make movements difficult. Make sure that your pet’ s costume does not interfere with their vision or hearing.
Also, beware of small parts, like buttons or loose strings, which can be chewed off and swallowed. Steer clear of any
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