From hot dogs to rock stars, dog costumes have never been more popular in Canada. Here at Rover.com, As North America’s most extensive pet sitting and dog-walking network, we put out a survey among Canadians and learned that our dogs are being included in just about all of our traditions. Especially Halloween. As the leaves change colours, and the weather turns, Canadians are heading out in droves to collect treats and costumes for their furry friends. The majority of pet owners around the country will be making, borrowing or buying only the finest Halloween outfits for their dogs.
Trick-or-Dog Treat
According to the Canadian Pet Halloween Costumes report, nearly three-quarters of those surveyed said their dogs would be tagging along with the rest of the family on All Hallows’ Eve. While many will be looking for that perfect photo-op, more than half stated that their pets were part of their own eerie ensembles. Expect to see gaggles of furry ghosts, covens of woolly witches and slobbery canine superheroes roaming the streets. Classic food favourites like Weiner dogs as weiners, tail-wagging tacos and even dogs dressed as condiments are fan favourites once again this year. Let’s face it, opening the door with (or for) a shallouting Labrador dressed as a lion will make put a smile on the face of even the most reluctant trick-or-treater.
Rover Dogs, Budley the Puggle and Andre the Great Pyrenees, as Robin and Steve from Stranger Things, working at the Scoops Ahoy ice cream counter
Safety First
When it comes to trick-or-treating, it’s best to stick to the tricks. Or dog treats. Don’t forget that chocolate, raisins, and other sweets can be toxic to dogs. Keep candies out of reach of rogue counter surfers, and let the humans of the house enjoy them instead. For more Halloween candy guidance, check out The Most and Least Dangerous Halloween Candies for Dogs.
Dogs who get jittery around strangers or who go barking-mad from bell ringing and door knocking may be happier enjoying some one-on-one time with their people away from all the action. If you need to drop your dog in a safe place for the evening, check out doggy daycare options near you. You know your pet better than anyone. Consider your dog’s personality before putting on any costumes. Some may love the extra attention dressing as Dog Vader brings, while others may tuck their tails and prefer going au naturel.
Homemade or Store-Bought?
DIY or Do I buy? That’s the big question for dog owners this year. When asked, participants’ answers are practically split down the middle, with 55% hitting the shops and 42% getting crafty. Some of this year’s most fabulous costumes will span the pop culture spectrum. Lady Gaga at the Met Ball, the Scoops gang from Stranger Things, and Old Town Road performers Lil Nas and Billy Ray Cyrus are a few examples. Bat Dog, Marvel mutts and a gamut of superheroes are also perennial favourites.
Rover Dog’s Coconut the Samoyed and Lemon the golden retriever dressed up as Billy Ray Cyrus and Lil Nas X
Donning a creativity cap and grabbing a glue gun may not be for everyone. Raincoats, toddler-clothing and even fabric flowers can help transform your pet into something spooktacular. For a little inspiration, check out Easy DIY Dog Costumes You Can Whip Up at Home. Alternatively, grab some Raptors gear, Canuck costumes or Habs jerseys to create the ultimate four-legged sportsfan. Of course, there’s always room in Leaf’s Nation for one more Bud’s fan.
Rover Dog, George, sporting his favourite hockey team
Insta-worthy
It comes as no surprise that celebs have been decking out their dogs and cats for years. From Meghan Markle to the Kardashian Clan, everyone loves to post pet pictures. According to MarketWatch, Canadians spent nearly half a billion dollars on dressing up their dogs for Pet-o-Ween last year. Canines in costume is a stress-free, funny way to spread the happy Halloween messages on Instagram, Facebook and other social media platforms. Over 60% of dog owners state that the photo-op is their number one reason for dressing up their dogs. Pup Parades and Haunted Dog Walk events are popping up across the country, from St John’s to Victoria, making for a lot of likes.
Rover Dog, Willie, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, pulls off this sparkly Elton John ensemble from Rocketman
Bundle up your fur babies, get the tricks and dog-treats ready, and have a very safe and Happy Howl-o-Ween!
Further Reading
- Over 47 Dog Halloween Costumes for 2019: A Guide for Real Dogs and Their People
- Top Halloween Cat Costumes: 18 Rover-Rated Costumes For Your Kitty
- 12 Scary Dog Costumes for Your Spooky Pooch in 2019
- 11 Adorable Halloween Costumes for Large Dogs
Data: Rover.com survey conducted via Pollfish in September 2019 of 600 Canadian-based pet parents.
