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Chewy
It's nearly Halloween, the time of year when you and your pets don their scariest or most adorable outfits. Whether you're trick or treating or just hanging out with some pumpkins, the right dog Halloween costume can make your pooch a big part of the festivities.
"The most important consideration when buying a costume for any pet is to ensure their safety and comfort," Jennifer Kovacs, Petco's Vice President of Dog and Cat Merchandising at PetCo, told The Spruce Pets. "It's a great opportunity to showcase your pet's unique personality."
There's a wide range of costumes available to fit large and small dogs alike. One of our favorites is the USPS Delivery Driver Dog Costume, which is available in four different sizes. But if you're looking for something a little more low commitment—something your dog could wear year-round—check out the adorable line of ChezAbbey Dog Hoodies, which transforms your dog into an apple, carrot, frog, or chicken.
There are a lot of choices out there for the doggy costumer, so check out our recommendations for the best Halloween costumes for dogs.
Best Overall
California Costumes USPS Delivery Driver Dog & Cat Costume
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Chewy
Distinctive design
Works for dogs and cats
Broad range of sizes
Runs slightly small in the shoulder area
Accessory assembly required
This little getup is instantly recognizable, yet it’s far from typical! A mini rendition on an actual USPS uniform, this dog costume is adorably accurate. Onlookers will instantly recognize the USPS reference—from the uniform itself (blue striped pants, a shirt, and a hat) to the adorably accurate USPS box attached to the outfit. The box is attached to two “arms,” which jut out as appendages from the costume in a way that appears to have your dog carrying the box.
This outfit is made from a combination of soft synthetic fabric and polyester. It’s relatively comfortable, so it should be well-tolerated by most pups. It’s available in sizes XS-L; that said, it does tend to run a bit small in the shoulder area, so be sure to account for this factor if your dog is a broader breed. Accessories, like the hat and box, really make this costume. It’s worth noting, however, that the box does require a tiny bit of assembly, so it’s not entirely pret a porter, so to speak! That said, assembling the box takes only a few minutes.
There's a version for UPS delivery dogs too!
Price at time of publish: $19
Sizes: XS-L | Materials: Polyester, Synthetic Fabric
Best Budget
ChezAbbey Dog Hoodies Pet Fruit Clothes Outfit Cat Warm Winter Sweater
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Amazon
Can be worn beyond Halloween
Warm
Up to XXL size
Some pets may not like the hood
This hoodie instantly transforms pups into the cutest carrot you’ve ever seen! We love the bright orange hue, which is sure to draw attention, and the green leafy portion that tops it all off. The hoodie is made from soft cotton, and is surprisingly good quality, especially considering the reasonable price tag. This sweatshirt is practical, too: For one, it can keep pups warm, which is great for those cold October nights. Secondly, this item can be worn well beyond Halloween, should you so choose, making it an extra-smart bang for the buck. The sweatshirt is made from a cozy, soft cotton material, which may actually appeal to picky pups. That said, if your pet isn’t into head pieces, the hood may not be their favorite feature.
While we're partial to the carrot costume, there are also ChezAbbey Dog Hoodies that can transform your dog into a frog, chicken, elk, apple, banana, turnip, or bumblebee.
Lastly, this sweatshirt is available in a wide range of sizes, from XS (great for breeds like Chihuahuas) to XXL (perfect for the likes of dalmations). In fact, this sweatshirt can even work for cats and other small animals. As always, it’s important to measure your pet prior to purchasing an outfit for them to wear, but this is a good choice if you’re looking for something with a more forgiving, relaxed fit.
Price at time of publish: $12
Sizes: XS-XXL | Materials: Cotton, Polyester
Best for Large Dogs
California Costume Collections Pretty as a Peacock Pet Costume
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Amazon
Adjustable Velcro headpiece
Open belly area
Super-soft fabric
Some dogs may not tolerate the headpiece
Parade your pup around in this pretty peacock costume! It features striking, bold colors that are bound to photograph beautifully. Available in sizes XS through L, it offers notable size flexibility, even within each size, thanks to adjustable Velcro fastenings and an open belly area. For this reason, it’s great for dogs who prefer fewer articles of clothing than most.
While this outfit features far less fabric-to-fluff contact than more restrictive costume options, it’s hardly short on spectacle! Note the stunning peacock “feathers,” made from plush fabric, sticking up in the rear part of the costume, as well as the glitzy headpiece. Both are made with iridescent fabric, which adds a magical, majestic quality to the overall look. It is worth noting, of course, that some dogs may be a bit fussy with the headpiece, especially if they’re not used to wearing fabric in that area. Even if the headpiece is a no-go, however, the rest of the costume is still striking.
Price at time of publish: $31
Sizes: XS-L | Materials: Plush Fabric, Velcro
Best for Small Dogs
Rubie's Despicable Me 2 Minion Pet Costume
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Amazon
Can work for dogs and cats
Great for group costumes
Hat can be slightly loose on super-small dogs
Who can resist Minions? Put a pup in the mix and you get something almost too adorable to handle. This Despicable Me 2 Minion Costume is the most accurate rendition of a minion outfit available, as it’s the official licensed pet costume for the Minion franchise. If you’re planning a family group costume around Minions, this is certainly a top contender for the four-legged friend in your group.
The costume comes in a range of sizes from small to extra large. Made from a smooth polyester fabric, it’s super-durable, easy to clean, and somewhat forgiving in terms of fit. We love this outfit for small breeds (and cats!), mainly because a miniscule pet “pulls off” a minion look so well! While most small breeds should fit according to the size chart (which is accurate for the most part), the fabric goggle headpiece has been reported to run slightly large, so be sure to consider this factor if your pup has a particularly small head. The back of this costume is open and roomy, which can offer a breezy, comfortable option for dogs who prefer to feel the air on their fur. Not to mention, the open back makes bathroom breaks a breeze!
Price at time of publish: $26
Materials: Polyester
Best Superhero
Rubie's DC Comics Superman Pet Costume
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Amazon
Excellent value
Iconic costume, officially licensed
Not available in XS
Material not quite as durable as others
Just like your dog, this three-piece Superman (or Superwoman!) outfit is majestic. While there are plenty of similar renditions of this popular costume, this is the officially licensed version, making it the most official super-pup outfit you can get.
The set comes with a detachable cape, a chest plate made from fabric emblazoned with the Superman logo, and an adjustable string tie that can be fastened and adjusted to suit your dog’s unique chest size. There’s a detachable belt, too. As always, be sure to measure and compare to the sizing chart, of course. This costume is available in sizes S-XL.
Price at time of publish: $18
Sizes: S-XL | Materials: Polyester
Best Movie Character
Rubie's Disney Finding Nemo Pet Costume
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Amazon
Officially licensed Nemo costume
Great for group costumes
Breathable polyester
More recognizable from the side than the front
Available in sizes from small through extra-large, this adorable Finding Nemo outfit will fit most dog breeds. This costume is true-to-size, too, which makes it a breeze to find the perfect fit. Made from 100 percent polyester, this costume is comfy and breathable, making it a good choice for pups who may be more that finicky side. The bright orange hue of the fabric is a true-to-life replication of Nemo, meaning there will be no doubt who your pup is dressing up to be, especially from the side view, which shows off some very cute fins. For this reason, this costume is perfect for all-family Nemo character costumes!
Price at time of publish (Medium): $32
Sizes: S-XL | Materials: Polyester
Best Scary Costume
Kawsalle Deadly Doll Dog Costumes
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Amazon
Adjustable
Accessories can be reattached
Comfy cotton-polyester blend
Limited size options
String ties instead of Velcro
While The Deadly Doll Dog Costume doesn't appear to be an official Child's Play series costume, it is a spot on tribute to the murderous Charles Lee Ray, more often known as Chucky. It even has "Good Dogs" knitted across the overalls, a nod to Chucky's "Good Guys" branding.
This costume boasts a super-spooky look complete with a (fabric!) knife, which is attached to stuffed arm appendages. From the front view, this costume makes your pup look like they have human arms, giving it a hilarious and adorable touch that’s bound to make you and onlookers giggle. The outfit is true to size, though it’s only available in sizes medium and large. For this reason, it’s best for medium-to-large dogs.
The back portion of the outfit is entirely open, making this outfit feel less constrictive than some other dog Halloween costume options, as well as being convenient for you and your dog when it’s time to go to the bathroom! Note the wig portion of this outfit, too, which really adds an extra touch of spooky adorableness to the overall look.
The Deadly Doll Dog Costume is made from a cozy cotton-polyester blend that fits most dogs comfortably. Instead of Velcro, it uses two string ties across your dog's back, which makes it a little finicky to fit, but also infinitely adjustable.
Price at time of publish: $25
Sizes: M, L | Materials: Cotton
Best Halloween Bandanas
Pickupik JPB 4 Pack Halloween Dog Bandana
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Multi-pack
Can be adjusted to most dog sizes
Specific to Halloween (cannot be used year round)
Dog bandanas are an excellent alternative to full-on costumes, especially if your dog prefers the freedom of not wearing an entire outfit. This set of four bandanas is an excellent value for money. Each bandana features a super-cute Halloween pattern or saying, including one that says “tricks for treats.” Choose among any of the four options, or switch them up if you and your pup have numerous Halloween festivities to attend.
This set is perfect for multi-dog households, too, as it offers a great value for money if you have more than one pup. Plus, they’ll be coordinating in these bandanas, which makes the dressing up situation all the more adorable. Perfect for photos! These bandanas are made from a polyester blend fabric, and the design doesn’t wear or fade over time.
Price at time of publish: $11
Sizes: Not applicable | Materials: Polyester blend
Best Cape
Strangefly Halloween Bat Wings Pet Costume
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Amazon
Durable
Easy to clean
Broad size range
May need additional velcro for security
Wide wingspan may pose issues going through doorways
This set of adorable bat wings can work with virtually any breed of dog (or cat!) and is particularly perfect for breeds with darker coats, as it blends in seamlessly. The wings are made from a soft felt cloth material, which is rigid enough to stand up on its own without too much adjustment throughout the night. The wings can be easily fastened to your pup by way of a velcro attachment, and just as easily taken off at the end of the night. The velcro isn’t the strongest attachment, especially for dogs who are wriggly, so prepare to be a bit creative by adding more of your own fasteners or additional velcro.
The measurements for this costume are a bit finicky and may veer slightly off if you go by the chart. That said, the adjustable nature of the velcro strap means that there is some wiggle room in terms of sizing. The wingspan on this costume is anywhere from 14.6 inches to 27.5 inches, depending on which size you get. Sizes range from XS to XL, which means there’s a size for most any breed. The XL size can get a bit tricky when it comes to walking through doorways, as the wingspan is notably wide! The wings are soft and flexible, though, so it shouldn’t be too much of an issue even if things get a bit tricky for a few moments.
Price at time of publish: $9
Sizes: XS-XL | Materials: Felt cloth
Best Food
Frisco Hotdog Dog & Cat Costume
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Chewy
Vast size range
Works well with a leash
Lots of toppings
Includes ketchup against the recommendation of hot dog purists
This hot dog costume idea is perfect for small breeds—dachshunds in particular. That said, this outfit is also available in larger sizes, up to an impressive XXL, which makes it a solid option for larger breeds, too.
This costume features all the best hot dog toppings, including ketchup (controversial, we know), mustard, and lettuce, as well as a seeded hot dog bun that adds a touch of delicious detail to the overall look. The hot dog portion of the outfit is plush, like a stuffed toy, and simply sits atop your pup’s back. It’s securely strapped into place with a hook-and-loop closure that’s sturdy as well as comfortable. The hot dog portion is super lightweight, ensuring this outfit isn’t a burden to the wearer. Better yet, the entire costume is contained in a single piece, meaning there are no parts to fiddle with.
The Frisco Hotdog Dog & Cat Costume is an easy-on, easy-off alternative to other more finicky options. Plus, there’s a space at the neck for your dog’s leash, as well as ample space for your dog’s tail to wag around freely and comfortably.
Price at time of publish: $16
Sizes: XS-XXXL | Materials: Polyester, Synthetic Fabric
Best Front Walking
Frisco Front Walking French Artist Dog & Cat Costume
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Chewy
Suitable for dogs or cats
Large range of available sizes
Adjustable elastic ear and chin straps?
Sizes run small, making it crucial to measure your dog in advance
The front-walking dog costume style is undeniably hilarious and adorable. This artist-inspired getup is among the most unique options we’ve seen, and is sure to inspire onlookers to create their own masterpieces. This costume is complete with an adorable striped shirt, a beret, a paintbrush, and pallet, with the furry artist's tools attached to each of the two plush arms.
Despite its many parts, this costume fits securely, with a hook-and-loop band fastener across the neck. The hat is also adjustable, with both ear and chin elastic.
Price at time of publish: $12
Sizes: XS-XXXL | Materials: Polyester, Synthetic Fabric, Cotton
Best Hat
Rubies Costume Company Viking Hat with Braids for Pets
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Courtesy of Amazon
Adjustable chin strap and flexible elastic over ears
Soft enough for dogs to tolerate
How else are you going to give your dog pigtails?
Hand wash only
Limited size availability
It may not make them excellent opera singers, but it's still hard to find a more distinctive, easy Halloween costume than Rubie's Viking Hat with Braids. Fitted over your dog's ears, with an adjustable chin strap, the polyester cap is lightweight and soft enough to make it more tolerable than many other dog costumes. But it's still structured enough to maintain its viking ferocity.
The Viking Hat with Braids is available in two sizes, suitable for small dogs like Yorkies or larger dogs like Bulldogs, though we wouldn't have minded a little more variety in the sizing options.
Sizes: Small-Medium, Medium-Large | Materials: Polyester
Best Animal
Tomsenn Dog Lion Mane
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Amazon
Surprisingly realistic
Available in two color patterns
Only one size and won't fit smaller dogs
This surprisingly realistic lion mane for dogs comes in two different color patterns, depending on whether you want a more single-hued, brown-orange look, or a patchwork brown and black. Fitted over your dog's neck with a single elastic opening, the Tomsenn Dog Lion Mane is a good compromise costume that's situated somewhere between a hat and a full costume.
The only downside is that it only comes in one size, so is only suitable for dogs with a neck circumference between 23.5 inches and 31.5 inches.
Price at time of publish: $16
Sizes: Medium-large | Materials: Wood fiber
The CALIFORNIA COSTUMES USPS Delivery Driver Dog & Cat Costume is an adorable, unexpected, and hilarious option that also comes in an array of sizes. The ChezAbbey Dog Hoodie is our top budget pick for its price point as well as versatility, as it can be worn well after Halloween to keep your dog warm.
What To Look For in Halloween Costumes for Dogs
Fit
While fit can vary from costume to costume, most full-blown dog Halloween costumes use three different dimensions in determining sizes: chest, neck, and overall length.
“Finding the right size is essential for comfort, so be sure to reference a size guide," Ali Smith, CEO and Founder of Rebarkable, told The Spruce Pets. "Costumes should be secure with features like Velcro straps and hook-and-loop closures to help the ensemble stay in place.”
Check out our sizing guide for more details on measuring your dog for a variety of fits.
Comfort
Ensuring your dog is comfortable in their Halloween costume is important. First, make sure the sizing isn’t too small or too large, which can feel restrictive or annoying to pets. Looking for a soft, non-irritating material is also important, as is ensuring any buttons or velcro aren’t rubbing against your pup’s fur and causing irritation.
Smith outlined several different indicators for us that will help you gauge if your dog is too uncomfortable in their getup: "whale eye (showing the whites of the eyes), lip licking, diverting attention, lack of eye contact." Dogs that are uncomfortable might also show a reluctance to move around in their costume.
If you're dog isn't accustomed to sweaters, jackets, or other clothing items, than consider a more minimalist approach, with a hat or other lightweight costuming item that is less likely to freak your dog out.
Material
Most dog costumes are made from soft, breathable material, such as cotton or polyester blends. For this reason, most dog costumes are machine-washable, too. This factor is particularly helpful when your dog decides to traipse through mud or hop into a pile of dirty leaves!
As for fasteners, velcro, string ties, and button like fasteners are common options for holding the costume together. All can be good options; velcro is perhaps the easiest to deal with, though can lose its stick over time and require additional handiwork on your part to keep it together. String ties are nice because they are often adjustable, as they can be tied more loosely or tightly depending on your dog’s size needs.
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What are the most popular Halloween costumes for dogs?
In terms of popular dog Halloween costumes, “Humor is always strong with dog parents,” Smith says.
One example she gives to illustrate is “making the most of your dog’s natural cow-like markings,” if they have them, by costuming them as a cute cow.
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How do I get my pet to wear a Halloween costume?
According to Smith, this depends on your pup. “First, know your dog’s strengths,” she says. “If they’re more nervous, then opt for easier things like collars or bandanas.”
For a more confident dog, try a full costume, but, Smith says, “just take it slow!”
“It is important to introduce the new costume slowly and with lots of positive reinforcement," Jennifer Kovacs, Petco's Vice President of Dog and Cat Merchandising at PetCo, told The Spruce Pets."It’s also a good idea to introduce pets to their costumes well in advance of the big night so they can get accustomed to them – treats can also help create a positive association with the new gear," she says.
Why Trust The Spruce Pets?
Sophie Wirt is a freelance writer and product tester for The Spruce Pets. An NYC-based writer and editor, she's been penning product reviews, interviews, and investigative pieces since 2015. Her work has appeared in publications including InStyle, Allure, W, SELF, and Byrdie, among others.
For this article, she consulted Ali Smith, CEO and Founder at Rebarkable, and Jennifer Kovacs, Petco's Vice President of Dog and Cat Merchandising at PetCo.