- Body Language:
- Your dogs may be uncomfortable in a costume if you see them; hunched over, stiff bodied, rolling around on the ground, whale eye, whining/growling.
- Alternatives Festive Ideas:
Festive bandanas, bowties, sweaters, costumes that are not bulky, putting small (not heavy) things on their collar or harness. - Condition to the costume:
Slowly making them comfortable to be in a costume. Treats when they sniff, treats when they touch the costume, treats as it's being put on them. - Helping them reduce stress:
- Sound machines to block out doorbells, chew bones and KONGs to keep busy and lower their stress levels. Provide a crate or mat to have a safe space for them when they get nervous.
- Management:
- Distance between scary costumes/decorations. Let them explore if they want and then back away when they want. Don't force them into exploring anything they don't want to.