Easy Halloween Costumes for Dogs and Cats (That They’ll Actually Tolerate)

A pet in a costume is one of the best parts of Halloween — as long as your dog or cat is comfortable too. The secret isn’t the most elaborate outfit. It’s a simple costume that fits well, doesn’t cover their face, and comes off quickly. Here are easy ideas and the tips that make the difference.

Easiest costumes: capes, wings and hats

If your pet has never worn anything, start with costumes that only rest on the back or neck. They’re quick to put on and most pets forget they’re wearing them.

• Bat wings — light and attached with a small strap: a classic for cats and small dogs. See the bat wings.
• Vampire cape — closes at the neck and leaves the legs free. See the vampire cape.
• A hat — for calm pets that don’t mind something on their head. Cowboy hat or mini sombrero.

Full costumes for confident pets

For dogs (and the occasional relaxed cat) that are already used to wearing a sweater, full costumes get the biggest laughs in photos:

• Hot dog costume — a favorite for dachshunds and small dogs.
• Dinosaur skeleton — glow-in-the-dark look, great for evening walks.
• Grim reaper rider — the “who’s riding your dog?” costume.
• Spider and giant spider — easy, funny, and they fit most body shapes.

See all of them in our Halloween collection.

How to pick the right size

1. Measure the chest at its widest point, just behind the front legs.
2. Measure the back from the base of the neck to the base of the tail.
3. Compare with the size guide in the product description. Between two sizes? Pick the bigger one: a costume that’s a bit loose is fine, a tight one isn’t.

You should be able to slide two fingers under any strap or collar.

Get your pet used to it before the big night

• Leave the costume on the floor for a day so your pet can sniff it.
• Try it on for a minute, give a treat, take it off. Repeat over a few days, a little longer each time.
• Take your photos early, while your pet is relaxed.

Signs your pet has had enough

Take the costume off if you see flattened ears, a tucked tail, freezing in place, hiding, constant scratching at the costume or, in cats, a twitching tail and crouching. A costume should never be a source of stress.

Quick safety checklist

• Nothing covering the eyes, ears, nose or mouth.
• No small loose parts your pet could chew off and swallow.
• Always supervise — never leave a pet alone in a costume.
• Keep candy (especially chocolate and anything with xylitol) out of reach.
• On a busy trick-or-treat night, a quiet room away from the doorbell is the kindest place for an anxious pet.

Happy Halloween from Pertu! 🎃