Dog-Friendly Activities for Spooky Season!

Dog-Friendly Activities for Spooky Season!

October is a month filled with eerie fun, haunted houses, and the anticipation of Halloween night. While we humans indulge in spooky movies and pumpkin-flavored everything, our furry friends can also get into the Halloween spirit. 

Dog owners everywhere are embracing the spooky season by involving their canine besties in Halloween-inspired activities. From parades and pumpkin patches to DIY haunted houses and costume contests, there are countless ways your dog can enjoy a festive October.

No matter where you live, there are bound to be dog-friendly events or activities that will keep both you and your pup entertained all fall long.

Two small dogs dressed up with sunglasses on at an event outside.

1. Halloween Dog Parades and Pet Expos

Halloween dog parades are becoming increasingly popular in cities and towns across the country. These parades give you the opportunity to show off your dog’s Halloween costume while meeting other pet owners and dogs dressed up in spooky (and often hilarious) outfits. 

Many pet expos also offer Halloween-themed events, where dogs can participate in games and even costume contests.

Major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Austin often host large Halloween parades for pets, such as the Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade in New York City or the Haute Dog Howl’oween Parade in Long Beach.

Smaller towns may also have Halloween parades organized by local pet stores, shelters, or community centers. Check with local pet boutiques or dog parks for announcements.

For those who prefer to avoid crowds, many pet expos and organizations offer virtual costume contests or pet parades. You can dress your dog up and submit photos or videos to compete for prizes.

How to Prepare:

  • Choose the Perfect Costume: When selecting a Halloween costume for your dog, ensure it fits properly and doesn’t restrict their movement or breathing. Costumes that cover the face, legs, or torso too tightly can cause discomfort.
  • Practice Walking in the Costume: If your dog isn’t used to wearing costumes, give them time to adjust by having them wear it for short periods before the parade.
  • Bring Essentials: Pack a water bottle, a portable bowl, and some treats for positive reinforcement throughout the event. Don’t forget poop bags to clean up after your dog!


These parades are not only great social events for humans but also for dogs. Dogs that are well-socialized and comfortable in crowds will enjoy meeting other dogs, sniffing around, and being part of the excitement. Plus, who doesn’t love seeing a dachshund dressed as a hot dog or a Great Dane dressed as a giant ghost?

A small dog smiling in a pumpkin patch.

2. Dog-Friendly Pumpkin Patches

Autumn isn’t complete without a visit to a pumpkin patch! Many pumpkin patches welcome dogs, making it a fun, outdoor activity. These patches often have plenty of open space for dogs to run around, and some may even offer pet-friendly treats or dog-centric activities.

Many farmers’ markets set up pumpkin patches during the fall season, and some allow pets on leashes. Search for pet-friendly pumpkin patches near your area to plan a festive outing.

Some farms go the extra mile and host special dog days, where your pet can participate in pumpkin-carving contests and more.

Activities to Enjoy:

  • Pumpkin Picking: While your dog won’t help you pick out the best pumpkin, they’ll certainly enjoy exploring the new sights and smells of the pumpkin patch. Remember, pumpkin (in moderation) can be a healthy snack for dogs!
  • Photo Opportunities: Pumpkin patches are the perfect place to capture some festive fall photos with your dog. Set up shots with pumpkins, hay bales, and autumn leaves as backdrops.
  • Corn Mazes: Some pumpkin patches also have corn mazes that allow dogs. If your pup is up for the challenge, you can navigate the maze together.

Safety Tips for Pumpkin Patches:

  • Leashes Are Essential: Even if the pumpkin patch is dog-friendly, keeping your dog on a leash will help keep them safe, especially if there are other dogs or children present.
  • Pumpkin Caution: While pumpkin is generally safe for dogs, ensure they don’t ingest raw or decorative pumpkins, which could upset their stomach.
  • Beware of Decorations: Many pumpkin patches feature decorations like fake cobwebs, skeletons, and other Halloween props. Keep an eye on your dog to make sure they don’t chew or ingest these items.

3. Spooky Dog Agility Courses

Dog agility courses can be a thrilling and mentally stimulating activity for dogs during the spooky season. Some training centers and dog parks host Halloween-themed agility courses, where dogs can race through tunnels, jump over obstacles, and weave around spooky decorations. These courses are designed to give your dog some exercise while celebrating Halloween in style.

Look for local dog parks or training centers that offer Halloween-themed agility events. Some parks even host night-time events with light-up obstacles for an extra spooky twist.

If there aren’t any local events, you can set up your own agility course in your backyard or living room using household items like chairs, boxes, and broomsticks.

Agility courses challenge your dog’s mind and body, helping them burn off excess energy while learning new skills.

With a Halloween theme, these courses can include fun and festive obstacles, like jumping over “ghosts” or crawling through “tombstone” tunnels.

A dog dressed up taking a selfie in the grass.

4. DIY Halloween Games at Home

You don’t have to leave home to create some spooky fun for your dog. Set up Halloween-themed games and activities at home to engage your dog’s mind and senses.

Try one of these:

  • Pumpkin Hunt: Hide small, dog-safe pumpkins (or pumpkin-shaped toys) around your yard or home and encourage your dog to find them. Use treats as rewards for each one they discover.
  • Treat Bobbing: Fill a shallow basin with water and float dog-safe treats or toys on the surface. Let your dog “bob” for the treats.
  • Costume Fashion Show: Dress your dog up in different costumes and host a mini fashion show at home. You can even invite friends and their dogs for a virtual costume contest!

A dog outside dressed up as a ghost.

5. Pet-Friendly Ghost Tours

Love ghost stories and spooky adventures? Now you can bring your dog along for the chills! Some cities offer pet-friendly ghost tours where you and your pup can wander historic streets and explore haunted spots together. These tours typically have a more relaxed atmosphere so your dog won’t get too spooked by the eerie tales.

Why It’s Fun for Your Dog:

  • New Sights and Smells: Dogs love exploring unfamiliar places, and a ghost tour offers plenty of interesting sights, sounds, and smells for them to take in as you stroll through haunted areas.
  • Outdoor Adventure: Ghost tours are often conducted outdoors, giving your pup a chance to get some exercise while tagging along for the spooky fun.

Don’t forget to include your dog in the Halloween fun. There are so many ways to have fun together this season! So grab your dog’s costume, plan a few fun outings, and let the spooky celebrations begin!

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