Cats

Fish

Rabbits

Birds

Horses

Top 10 Halloween Costumes For Dogs

Lori Ennis
by Lori Ennis
Published:  October 1st, 2018

No self-respecting dog would find himself on Halloween without the paw-fect costume, so we’ve rounded up the Top Ten Halloween costumes for dogs that are guaranteed to ensure a happy Howl-oween!

According to a survey from the National Retail Federation, Americans will spend nearly $9 billion dollars on to celebrate Halloween. And, obviously, that includes dough dished out on our favorite furry friends! The survey found that 18% of pet owners are planning to dress their pets up to celebrate Halloween with them this year, which is up from 16% of pet owners who did so last year. Here are ten fantabulous costumes that you’ll want to check out!

1. Unicorn Costume by Petkrewe

Check Price

Holy horns! Your dog will definitely take the night by the horns wearing this adorable unicorn costume from Petkrewe. It’ll fit pups (and kittehs too!) up to 18 pounds, and has velcro for the perfect adjustment. And, every purchase of a Petkrewe Costume ends up helping animals at local shelters all over the country!

2. Mermaid/Man Costume by Petkrewe

Check Price

And since we’re all about helping animals in shelters, another fave of ours from Petkrewe is the Merman/Maid costume. The seashell cups are removable so you can have whatever you want right from the sea in your very own home. The tail is a Petkrewe exclusive design and the sequins go from a luminescent green to seafoam blue. Fancy!

3. Spider Pup By California Costumes

Check Price

The sweetest little furry spider you ever did see is right behind the multiple eyes of this hilarious Spider Pup costume by California Costumes. And this little spider won’t leave behind that nasty, sticky web we always tend to walk into!

4. UPS Costume by California Costumes

Check Price

Talk about turn-about being fair play! This funny costume is a nice spin for the UPS man–who can be dog’s best friend or arch-enemy, depending on the day. Any day your dog is in this costume, though, is guaranteed one to bring smiles to all who see!

5. R2D2 Costume by Rubies

Check Price

So if there was ever a way to make an adorable robot be even cuter? It would be to take your furry best friend and dress him up as one! This lovable sidekick doggy droid will be the hit of any Halloween night!

6. Hunny Bunny Costume by Rasta Imposta

Check Price

If you ever wanted to take a hot bunny to a party, here’s the costume for your most faithful companion–your dog! Looking like she’s set for Hugh Hefner himself, your dog will have all the boys coming to the yard with those…ears.

7. Ride ‘Em Cowboy by Naococo

Check Price

Wheeeew doggie! Your little pardner will want to giddy up with this adorable cowboy costume, complete with a rider who has “Yeehaw!” written all over his face. Made of breathable soft polyester, it’ll be comfy and cowboy ready for trick-or-treating!

8. Superman/Wonderwoman by Rubies

Check Price

Want the world to know your super-pups are on the job? Then you’re gonna obviously need to make sure they have their superhero costume ready for them to display their super adorable powers! Whether it’s Superman or Wonder Woman, they’re set to save the day and literally take a bite out of crime.

asta Dog by Rubies

Check Price

9. R asta Dog by Rubies

Hey ‘Mon. Gimme’ some dog treats! This rasta-fabulous costume will have your dog chillin’ like a Halloween villain while people can’t help but break out in some Bob Marley and big smiles.

10. Santa Elmo by Petkrewe

We know, we know…a *tad* bit early for Santa (but really, is it EVER too early for SANTA?) but we just love that Petkrewe has collaborated with Sesame Street to bring our favorite animals to their product line. Lucky for us, Halloween means your pup can be whatever he wants, even if that means Santa Elmo!

WOW
Lori Ennis
Lori Ennis

More by Lori Ennis

Audio, a 4-Eared Kitten, Is Turning Heads in Tennessee
Audio, a 4-Eared Kitten, Is Turning Heads in Tennessee
View Article
Next
Related articles
Top 12 Cat Halloween Costumes to Hiss At

Cats and Halloween just go together… but have you ever dressed your kitty in a costume? Try on one of these cat Halloween costumes – that is, if your feline will let you!

Top 10 Reasons for Adopting an Older Dog

10 rewarding reasons for adopting an older dog

Top 10 Best Indoor Dogs
Top 10 Best Indoor Dogs
View Gallery
Do Dogs Like Halloween Costumes?

If you love getting dressed up for the Halloween season, then you may be considering including your dog in the festivities. But do dogs like Halloween costumes? Are Halloween costumes safe for your dog? These are important questions that we should be asking ourselves before purchasing that adorable outfit for the spooky season.

DIY Halloween Costumes for Dogs: Chia Pet

Low on cash, high on creativity? Save your money and make your dog’s Halloween costume for a couple of bucks. We’ll tell you what you’ll need and how to do it. I’m not the craftiest person on the planet, but I do dabble in the art. My sewing skills are basic – loose buttons and small rips are all I can handle. After seeing my latest credit card bill, I made the decision to cut back on spending… and that meant no new Halloween costumes for Oscar. The only way he could make a fashion statement on October 31 is if I got creative with my design skills. That’s the inspiration behind this DIY Halloween Costumes for Dogs series! First up is Oscar’s Chia Pet Costume. This famous “As Seen on TV” potted plant is adorable when a pet is parading in it. It’s easy to make and cost me $5. What you’ll need: Baby Onesie or t-shirt, Green, Orange, or Red (bigger dogs will need a t-shirt)Plastic Greenery, from the Dollar StoreHot glue gunNeedle and threadSafety Pin Directions:

Are Dog Bars the New Dog Park?

Socializing with other pet parents over a cold one, just got easier!

10 Foods That Are Bad for Dogs
10 Foods That Are Bad for Dogs
View Gallery
Give Your Cat a Purr-fect Treat

A lot of emphasis gets put on treats that help keep your dog’s teeth clean, but it is also an important consideration for your cat.

10 Downing's New PM Better Like Cats!

13-year resident Larry the Cat isn't going anywhere. And that's perfectly fine with new PM.

When Can a Puppy Start Eating Kibble?

One of the most exciting milestones in your dog’s puppyhood is the transition from milk and soft foods to solid kibble. This marks a major step in their growth and development and ensures that they receive all the important nutrients for a healthy life. But even so, some owners are uncertain about when exactly kibble should be introduced.Understanding the right timing for this can be crucial for their good development and overall well-being as it helps set a solid foundation for a healthy diet later on in life. So here’s what you need to know before you offer dry food to your puppy.When Can a Puppy Start Eating Kibble?In the early first few weeks of their life, puppies rely entirely on their mother’s milk for nutrition. Nature arranged it so that this milk provides all the essential antibodies that boost their immune system and nutrients that are vital for their early growth. Usually, puppies should stay with their momma and littermates until they are at least 8 weeks old. During this time, they gradually transition from nursing to exploring more solid foods.Around 3 to 4 weeks of age, however, puppies begin showing more and more interest in the food that their mom is eating, and will often nibble on solid foods. These can be softened puppy food or kibble soaked in water. This helps them to become accustomed to all kinds of different textures and flavors, which in turn prepares them for eventually switching to dry kibble and other solid foods.In general, puppies can begin eating dry kibble between 6 and 8 weeks of age. At this stage, their little teeth are developing, and they have the jaw strength needed to chew solid foods efficiently. Still, it is important to choose high-quality puppy kibble formulated specifically for their nutritional needs. Go for a formula that is based on natural, wholesome ingredients and doesn’t contain any nasty filler or artificial substances – meat should be the first ingredient on the list, followed by sources of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, such as veggies and fruit.

Do Hypoallergenic Dogs Really Exist?

There has been a recent surge in dog lovers and prospective dog parents interested in hypoallergenic pups. The allure of a hypoallergenic dog is undeniable for those who may feel limited due to allergies. But does the perfect allergy-free pet truly exist?While there is no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic dog, certain breeds are less likely to trigger allergic reactions. This could open the door for pet allergy sufferers to add a furry companion to the family. This guide will explore the reality of hypoallergenic dogs and help you choose the dog that best suits the needs and sensitivities of your family.What is a “Hypoallergenic Dog?”Let’s start with the basics: what exactly is a hypoallergenic dog? Contrary to popular belief, the term hypoallergenic, when applied to a product or item, does not mean that it absolutely cannot cause an allergic reaction. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, “hypoallergenic” is defined as “having little likelihood of causing an allergic response.”These are dog breeds that are less likely to cause problems for allergy sufferers due to various physical characteristics. For example, the breed may be low shedding, have shorter coats (or be considered hairless), or the coat type naturally catches and traps allergens like loose hair and dander, controlling its spread around your home.While these qualities make it more likely that these dogs could co-exist peacefully with an allergic family member, it is important to note that they are not 100% free from allergens.Which Dogs are Considered to be HypoallergenicDeciding which dogs are considered to be hypoallergenic is a bit of a grey area. Some breeds will make the list when speaking with one expert, and not the list shared by the next. This can make it difficult to determine if a dog you are considering will be a good fit for your home.Even if the dog breed you are considering is well-known for their hypoallergenic coats, I recommend having a conversation with the breeder, the shelter/rescue you are adopting from, and your doctor (or allergist) to prepare yourself to take precautions and minimize any risk. Individual dogs may have unique grooming needs or considerations even within a breed.Here is a list of breeds commonly referred to as hypoallergenic: Affenpinscher Afghan Hound American Hairless TerrierBarbado da Terceira Barbet Bedlington Terrier Bichon Frise Bolognese Chinese Crested Coton de Tulear Irish Water Spaniel Kerry Blue Terrier Lagotto Romagnolo Lowchen Maltese Peruvian Inca Orchid Poodle (Toy, Miniature, Standard) Portuguese Water DogRussian Tsvetnaya BolonkaSchnauzer ( Miniature, Standard, Giant) Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier Xoloitzcuintli Yorkshire TerrierWhat about mixed-breed dogs? With the current buzz surrounding poodle mixes like Golden Doodles, Bernedoodles, Labradoodles, and more, many interested in finding a hypoallergenic companion have been told they are the perfect option. The truth is that no one can give you an honest and definite answer that can be applied to all dogs of a specific mix.While “doodle” dogs do have poodles in their genes, it can’t be guaranteed that the hypoallergenic qualities of a poodle coat will be present in every puppy. For example, a Golden Doodle (Golden Retriever/Poodle) could be born with a hypoallergenic poodle-like coat or a coat that resembles the Golden Retriever more. If you live with allergies, you know that Golden Retrievers are definitely not a hypoallergenic option.This isn’t to say that mixed breeds won’t be hypoallergenic. However, you need to consider each dog's physical attributes individually instead of making an assumption based on their breed makeup. Dog Breeds Commonly Mislabeled as HypoallergenicOf course, while people generally mean well when making recommendations of the best dog for people with allergies, mistakes are going to be made. Some dog breeds are often recommended that shouldn’t be given this label.As we just discussed, the first group of dogs that should be mentioned here are mixed-breed dogs. While mixed breeds can be born with the hypoallergenic characteristics of a parent, there is no guarantee that the puppies will inherit those physical traits. Many families have adopted poodle mixes with the promise of purchasing a hypoallergenic dog, only to find their new beloved family member is badly triggering allergies in the home.Dog breeds often mistaken for hypoallergenic may share traits or commonalities with dogs on the previous list. However, they have other characteristics that contribute to allergic reactions in those around them. For example, a dog could have a very short coat but produce larger amounts of dander, a common dog-related allergen.Purebreds that are often mistaken or mislabeled as hypoallergenic include: Basset Hound Boxer Doberman Pinscher Labrador Retriever Pug Shih TzuIf in doubt, speak with the breeder or rescue worker about your needs. A reputable breeder will be knowledgeable about the breed they produce and committed to only placing their dogs in homes that are an ideal fit. Shelter and rescue workers are dedicated to finding the best home for the dogs in their care. Even if the dog you’re considering adopting isn’t a good fit, they will likely have recommendations for others you should consider.

Hypothermia in Cats: What You Should Know

Hypothermia puts your cat’s health at risk, and if not treated in time, can be fatal. So, it’s wise to know even just the basics about hypothermia so you can recognize the symptoms and get your cat the help they need right away. Here’s a short guide to get you started.

FIP Treatment Now Available for Cats

As of June 1, 2024, pet parents can get the FIP treatment they need for their cats, but there is some confusion about this. Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a fatal condition, but pet parents have been using a drug, GS-441524, to cure their cats (though the drug is not always effective in all cases). Despite the success of the treatment, the problem has been that the drug was only available on the black market, so people would access it with the help of groups on social media since vets weren’t able to prescribe it.

These Dog Breeds Are at the Most Risk of Overheating

The dog days of summer are upon us. Temperatures are rising across the country and many cities are already faced with record-breaking heat waves. When extremely hot weather rolls in, it’s not only people who struggle to stay cool and hydrated. Our four-legged companions shouldn’t be forgotten during this hot time as they often have trouble cooling down.“High temperatures can affect dogs differently depending on a variety of factors,” said Angela Beal, DVM. “Generally, it’s advisable to avoid taking your dog out when the temperatures exceed 85°F, especially if the humidity is high.”All dogs can get painful burns on their paw pads when they come into contact with hot pavement, but certain dog breeds are more susceptible to overheating in hot weather. “Dogs have sweat glands mainly in their paw pads, so [their] primary way to cool themselves down is by panting…The brachycephalic airway impacts airflow [so] they are unable to cool themselves down effectively in even mild heat,” explained Petco chief veterinarian, Dr. Whitney Miller. She added that dogs with “longer and thicker coats are also more susceptible to heatstroke.”According to veterinarians, breeds most susceptible to heatstroke include, bulldogs, boxers, pugs, Boston terriers, chow chows, Shih Tzus, golden retrievers, huskies, and malamutes. Dogs like bulldogs, boxers, Boston terriers, pugs, Shih Tzus, chow chows, and French bulldogs are classified as brachycephalic breeds. These dogs have short noses and elongated soft palates that predispose them to breathing problems and make it hard to regulate their body temperature. All of these factors combined, make these pups highly susceptible to heatstroke. On the other hand, breeds like huskies, malamutes, and golden retrievers have longer and thicker double coats that can cause these breeds to overheat during the summer easily. These are the two main reasons for heatstroke in dogs, but Dr. Miller adds that young puppies and senior dogs are also at higher risk of overheating. Owners should also keep a close eye on overweight dogs and canines that aren’t in good physical shape. While these factors make some dogs more susceptible to heatstroke, owners should understand that any dog can overheat during a particularly hot summer day. Preventing your dog from overheating is key if you want to keep them healthy and happy during the summer months. “Provide clean, cool drinking water and access to shade. Never leave your pet outside or in a hot car for a long period of time, regardless of the shade,” said Dr. Miller. She advised dog owners to adjust their walking routines during the summer months to ensure they aren’t taking their dogs out during the hottest hours of the day. Walking your pooch early in the morning and later in the evening is a great way to minimize the risk of overheating and painful paw burns. Maintain a regular grooming routine during the summer months, especially if you own a curly or double-coated pooch. Curly-coated breeds, like poodles, can benefit from having their coat trimmed during the summer, while double-coated breeds like, huskies and chow chows, can experience some relief after being brushed by a professional with a de-shedding tool.When it comes to signs that your dog is getting overheated, look for panting, dark, blue, or red gums and tongue, diarrhea, vomiting, drooling, rapid and deep breathing, weakness, disorientation, and collapse. If your dog is exhibiting any of these symptoms on a hot day, take them to a cool and well-ventilated room and offer them fresh, cool water. If you’re concerned that your pooch is too hot or you can’t cool them down, call your vet right away.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Do I Stop My Cat From Waking Me up at Night?

As cat parents, we all love our feline family members. But that love doesn’t erase the frustration that comes with your cat turning into a furry alarm clock at precisely 3 am every morning. Why are they even up at that hour?In this article, we’ll address exactly that—the reasons for your cat’s nighttime activities and the steps you can take to reclaim your sleep once and for all.Let’s not waste any time…Why Does My Cat Wake Me Up Every Night? Having your sleep disturbed by your cat every night can be frustrating. But before you get upset with your furry friend, consider asking yourself why. Why are they waking you up? Why are they unable to settle in? There is a possibility that this could be your cat’s way of asking for or alerting you to something important. Here are a few of the more common reasons: Pain or Medical Problems This is most common in cats that once used to settle in fine and are now changing their nighttime routine. If your cat is feeling “off,” whether it’s due to discomfort or pain, it may be preventing them from relaxing or sleeping at night. To rule this out, you must make an appointment with your veterinarian. Pay careful attention to any other signs of trouble, including: Panting Changes in eating habits “Accidents” or failure to use their litterbox like usual Excessive vocalization (meowing, howling, hissing)Loss of interest in toys, furniture, or activities they once loved Overgrooming or failure to groom Hiding or reluctance to be handledIrritability or uncharacteristic aggression When you speak with your veterinarian, explain all behavior changes or reasons for concern that you have recorded. If you're unsure, we recommend keeping a journal. This will help you spot patterns and red flags. Feline Dementia Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS) in cats is similar to Alzheimer’s disease in humans. As our cats get older, one of the unfortunate age-related symptoms they suffer is a change in their mental state. They may start to act confused, seem unfamiliar with their surroundings, stare blankly into space, or struggle to follow household rules that were once deeply ingrained. If your cat has CDS, they may vocalize loudly at night because they don’t remember where they are or can’t find you. This behavior is often a sign of feeling anxious, fearful, or stressed out. Cat parents who know they have a kitty with CDS may need to keep their cat in a contained “safe place” at night to prevent them from wandering and becoming lost, as it can be incredibly distressing for them. Feeling Hungry Do you have a cat that is highly food-driven? I do! Speaking from experience, an empty food dish can trigger quite a commotion. Our food-driven cat Jinx is quick to let us know when she’s hungry and doesn’t have access to something tasty. In the same way, it could also be your cat’s way of letting you know that their water dish or fountain is running low. Lack of Daytime Activity/Stimulation Cats require mental and physical exercise throughout their day to live a happy, healthy life. When they don’t have this, they can feel bored and exhibit “bad” behaviors like scratching furniture, tearing about the toilet paper, overgrooming, or becoming overly vocal. Much like the cats who are trying to communicate that their food or water dishes are empty, these cats are trying to tell you that they are missing something essential in their lives. It is most common in cats living in a smaller space with few opportunities to engage in their natural behaviors, such as climbing, scratching, hunting, and hiding. Feeling Lonely Despite their aloof and sassy personalities, cats are actually social animals. This is why you find stray cats living in colonies. Your cat’s social needs can be met by you, other people in the house, a second cat (or third or fourth…), or even another animal, like a dog. But they need to have someone they can connect with. Are you your cat’s person? Even if you spend a few hours focused entirely on them before heading to bed, your absence may be difficult for them. Cats can experience separation anxiety, even if the only separation is that you are in a different room, leaving them alone. Differing SchedulesCats are naturally most active at dawn and dusk, which is known as being crepuscular. While some cats will adjust their schedules to match their human family members a little closer, doing so goes against their natural instincts (unless you work a night shift). Other crepuscular pets include hamsters, rats, mice, rabbits, ferrets, and chinchillas. Your cat will likely wake up to get attention or play with you throughout the day, but they will also take many naps. Our cats spend much of their day stretched out in a patch of sunshine, soaking up the warmth and recharging. In general, cats are most energetic first thing in the morning as the sun rises and again just as the average person is getting ready for bed.

Can You Prevent Joint Pain in Dogs?

As dogs near their golden years, different health issues tend to pop up – sometimes completely out of the blue, and sometimes a little less unexpectedly. One of the more common health problems dogs experience as they age that can be predicted fairly easily and as such prevented on time are joint issues. Providing proper support for your dog while they are still young and agile can dramatically improve their quality of life later on, so it pays to start thinking ahead when it comes to joint health, especially if your pet is in a high-risk group for developing this type of problem (large breed dogs, working breeds, highly active dogs, etc). Here’s what you need to know to make sure your pet doesn’t suffer from joint pain in their senior years.5 Crucial Steps to Prevent Joint Pain in DogsWhile some factors contributing to joint pain are beyond our control, there are different proactive steps we can take to support our pet's joint health:#1 Maintain a Healthy WeightJust as in humans, obesity in dogs exacerbates joint strain and can accelerate the onset of joint problems. A balanced diet will go a long way in helping your pet maintain a healthy weight, so strive to ensure they are getting only quality food that is based mostly on protein and doesn’t contain unhealthy fats and too many fillers such as soy or corn.#2 Provide Regular ExerciseModerate, low-impact exercise helps keep joints limber and muscles strong. However, be mindful of your dog's limitations, as pushing them too far can end up being counterproductive. Activities like swimming and walks are excellent choices, just make sure to tailor the pace to your pet’s capabilities.#3 Quality Supplementation Providing a diet rich in essential nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin, supports joint health. However, even when feeding a good quality kibble, it’s not always feasible to rely on your pet’s diet alone to be enough to provide all of these joint-nurturing ingredients in the right ratio. This is where dog joint supplements come in to enrich your pet’s diet with specific nutrients. 

Can Dogs Have Insomnia?

We all had trouble sleeping, at least once in our life. Some have a more persistent problem, which is called insomnia. This is a sleep disorder that can make it very hard to stay asleep or even fall asleep to begin with. But can dogs suffer from this problem as well? If you notice your pooch having trouble snoozing and staying up all the time, it could be a sign that they have some form of sleep disorder. And it could very well be canine insomnia. Can Dogs Have Insomnia and What Causes It?In short, the answer is yes, dogs can experience insomnia, although it is not as common as it is in humans. Insomnia in dogs can be caused by various factors, including physical discomfort, anxiety, changes in routine or environment, underlying medical conditions, or even age-related issues. If a dog consistently has trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, it's essential to consult a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health concerns and to determine the best course of action to help the dog sleep better. After all, it might not be insomnia that is causing the issues, as there could be several factors to cause changes in sleep patterns for doggos. For example, pain from injuries and physical discomfort can affect their quality of sleep. Dogs that are recovering from surgery, or senior dogs with arthritis, can find it difficult to lie down in a comfy position to sleep. So they can’t sleep at all. What is more, chronic conditions such as hip dysplasia or intervertebral disc disease can also contribute to insomnia.Anxiety and stress can also affect sleep in dogs. Things like loud thunderstorms, fireworks, or similar noises can cause great stress for doggos, and completely inhibit them from sleeping. Similarly, changes in their environment or routine, or being in unfamiliar surroundings can make them anxious, as well as being separated from their owners. All this affects sleep. Another common cause of insomnia in dogs is canine cognitive dysfunction ( dementia) which affects senior doggos. Being old, these dogs may experience changes in their sleep patterns due to cognitive dysfunction, which is similar to Alzheimer's disease in humans. They may become disoriented at night, leading to restlessness and difficulty sleeping.But young dogs too can have trouble with sleep, especially if they are hyperactive or have excessive energy levels. Due to this excess energy, young dogs can have difficulty relaxing and settling down to sleep. It is always best to tire out young dogs and help them spend that energy with classic dog toys, so they can sleep “like babies”. By far the best way to tire out a young, active dog is a good ol’ game of fetch – small but sturdy balls such as these tough rubber ones by Chuckit! are the best choice as they can be thrown far and will withstand your pet’s gnawing without any issue.

Dogs Can Smell When You’re Stressed

Researchers have discovered that dogs can smell human stress and it can affect the way they make decisions. The study was conducted in the United Kingdom, and helps shed more light on how dogs can be impacted by the emotions experienced by people.

About Privacy Terms Contact us Copyright
© 2024  VerticalScope Inc. All rights reserved.