The top ten Halloween dog costumes

From spiders to four-legged cowboys, dressing up dogs for Halloween has become a growing seasonal trend. But pet owners should be aware that behind the adorable outfits and festive fun, there are hidden risks owners should be aware of to keep their pets safe.

We've been keeping a close eye on the rise in Halloween dog costumes – and it’s clear the trend is booming.

Google searches for “Halloween dog costume” hit more than 147,000 last month¹, with pet owners hunting for the perfect outfit.

When it comes to popularity, some outfits are stealing the spotlight. According to our analysis of UK Google search data from the past 12 months, the top trending Halloween dog costumes for 2025 are²: 

A word of advice to keep pets safe this Halloween

While these costumes may be adorable, experts are however advising pet owners to choose carefully.  

While dressing up your dog for Halloween might seem like harmless fun, it’s important to remember that costumes can pose some risks for pets.

Outfits that are too tight can restrict movement and breathing, while loose or oversized designs may cause tripping or injury. Materials like synthetics are also more flammable, which is a real concern around candles and open flames.

Decorative elements such as buttons, beads or wires can be dangerous if chewed or swallowed, and even the most well-behaved pets can become anxious in noisy, crowded environments. If your dog is easily stressed, it may be best to skip the costume altogether.

Kara Gammell
Personal Finance & Insurance Expert

Be mindful when dressing up

For those wanting a festive photo with their pet, keep dressing-up brief and always supervise your pet while they’re in costume. Avoid elaborate designs and never leave a dog unattended in an outfit.

Prioritising your pet’s comfort and safety ensures Halloween is enjoyable for everyone, including your four-legged friend.

Costumes aren’t the only risk we see around Halloween

Chocolate treats, decorations, and the general hustle and bustle of the night can all pose serious dangers. While Halloween can be lots of fun for the family, it can be a cause of stress for some pets

Chocolate, xylitol, and sugary sweets left within reach can quickly become toxic, while excited trick-or-treaters, flashing lights, and spooky decorations can cause stress, anxiety, and accidents.

Chocolate is one of the most common – and dangerous – Halloween hazards for dogs. It contains theobromine, a chemical that’s toxic to pets and can lead to serious health complications if ingested. Even small amounts can be harmful, so it’s vital to keep all sweets and treats well out of reach.

With trick-or-treaters coming and going, it’s easy for pets to sneak a snack they shouldn’t. Make sure children know not to share their goodies and pick up any dropped sweets quickly. A little extra vigilance can go a long way in keeping your furry friend safe this Halloween.

Pet owners should also be mindful of open doorways. Answering the door to trick-or-treaters provides opportunities for nervous or overexcited pets to escape.

If you're expecting plenty of visitors this Halloween, keep anxious pets secured, away from the front door, and provide them with a safe space to escape from strangers or loud noises that might trigger them.

Microchips are an essential tool that helps lost pets reunite with their owners. Microchipping is mandatory for both dogs and cats in the UK so make sure your pet has theirs and that your details are up to date as well.

Having pet insurance in place also provides reassurance that your pet is protected should anything go wrong this Halloween.

^{Sources
1Global search data taken from Glimpse. Correct as of October, 2025. 
2Halloween costume search data taken from KeyWordTool based on volume of monthly UK Google searches. Correct as of October, 2025.}