Halloween decorations and sounds can feel downright terrifying for dogs. Flickering jack-o’-lanterns, motion-activated witches, inflatable ghosts and goblins, and eerie sound effects can startle even the most confident dogs. When walking your dog(s) this time of year, it’s essential to ensure your pup feels safe and secure while enjoying fall outings. Here are 5 ways to keep your dog calm during Halloween walks in the CT Shoreline.
1. Keep Your Dog Leashed
A sturdy 6-foot leash and well-fitted harness are your best tools for safety during walks. Many decorations move, light up, or make unexpected noises, so keeping your dog securely leashed prevents sudden darting or escape if they get scared. Do a quick gear check before stepping out. Always make sure that collars or harnesses are snug but comfortable. And replace harnesses and leashes when they start to fray.
2. Give Your Dog Space to Retreat
If your route takes you past a particularly spooky house or front yard covered in terrifying animatronics, give your dog plenty of space. Cross the street or walk in a wide arc around the decor. Allowing your dog distance from the “scary” object helps them feel more in control and less pressured to confront something frightening. Never push or pull them past the decor because you could magnify their fear by forcing they approach.
3. Bring High-Value Treats
Keep a small stash of your dog’s favorite treats on hand. If your pup freezes or hesitates near spooky decorations, use gentle encouragement paired with treats to help them take a few steps forward. Rewarding calm behavior can slowly build confidence, and make the walk more positive overall.
High-value treats include chopped chunks of hot dogs (the human kind), freeze-dried beef liver or chicken hearts, and chunks of cheese. Read this Reddit thread for more delicious and creative ideas!
4. Use a Soft, Reassuring Voice
If your dog seems nervous, talk to them in a calm and comforting tone. A soft, cheerful voice tells them that everything is okay. Avoid tension in your leash or voice; dogs pick up on our emotions easily, so your relaxed energy can help them settle more quickly. It’s okay to giggle or laugh softly at their reaction, because they can be very funny from our perspective, but don’t forget that their fear is very real and compassion goes a long way!
5. Choose Your Route Wisely
If you know your neighborhood tends to go all out with Halloween decor, consider adjusting your walking path. Stick to streets or parks where decorations are minimal, especially after dark. Early morning or daytime walks can also be less stressful since inflatables and animatronic displays are usually quieter or unlit.
Extra Tips for a Smooth Halloween Walk
For added protection for you and your pets this time of year, consider the following:
- Avoid distractions like your phone during walks.
- Bring a flashlight or headlamp if you’re walking after sunset.
- Reward your dog for ignoring decorations rather than forcing interaction.
- Keep walks shorter if your dog seems uneasy; safety and comfort come first.
- Around October 31st, watch for excited trick-or-treaters who might appear suddenly and avoid them.
5 Ways to Keep Your Dog Calm During Halloween Walks in the CT Shoreline
Halloween can still be fun for your dog with a little extra awareness and planning. By keeping them leashed, being aware, and encouraging them with kindness (and treats!), you can ensure their nightly walk stays more about tail wags than frights.
In addition to these 5 ways to keep your dog calm during Halloween walks, if your dog is terrified of decor, please leave them at home on Halloween night. Put them in a safe room with music or white noise, turn off all of your porch lights if you don’t want to give out candy, and remain calm for your dog’s safety and comfort.
The Best Dog Walkers in the CT Shoreline
Shoreline Happy Paws is currently accepting new clients for our dog walking and dog hiking adventure services!
New Shoreline Happy Paws clients can create an account. We will be in touch to further discuss your needs and set you, your family, and your family up for success. Existing clients, please book services by logging in to your client profile.
We serve the following areas of the Connecticut Shoreline:
- Old Saybrook
- Essex, Ivoryton & Centerbrook
- Deep River
- Chester
- Westbrook
- Clinton
- Old Lyme
- East Lyme
- Niantic
Certain Parts and Certain Service Hours in:
- Lyme and Madison
- Waterford, New London, Groton
- Uncasville, Gales Ferry, Mystic, Noank
