What Are The Best Halloween Costumes For Big Dogs?

written by LTHQ last updated September 26, 2020

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The 10 Best Halloween Costumes For Big Dogs. Yellow Lab puppy with lion's mane carrying around pumpkin dog toy. — Big Dog Halloween Costumes

As you prefer for parties, trick and treating, or just greeting people as they approach your door, you’re probably thinking about costumes. But don’t forget about a Halloween costume for your dog.

A cute Halloween costume for your pup will see your kids getting more candy, your house getting more attention, and all of your friends queuing up to take selfies with your canine cutie.

There are lots of options out there, so it’s just a matter of searching to find something that suits your Halloween predilections. However, there are a few features to look out for and you should make sure your dog enjoys wearing his Halloween costume and doesn’t mistake it for a form of torture.

We have put together a list of 10 of the best Halloween costumes, specifically for larger dogs like Labradors. We have also put together a list of a few things to consider when choosing a costume, to make sure it’s comfortable and safe for your dog.

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10 Best Halloween Costumes For Big Dogs

1. Frisco Glow In The Dark Skeleton Dog Hoodie

Sometimes the classics are the best, and there is nothing more classic than a skeleton costume.

This option from Frisco is a doggy hoody in black, with a glow in the dark skeleton printed across its back, which will stand out when they are walking around the dark streets with you. There is also a built-in leash hole so you can remain safe on the street as well.

It comes in six sizes from X-Small to XX-Large, so there is an option for every dog (and cat if they will let you get away with it). It has a slip-on-and-off style that goes over the head and the front legs, which is easy to apply if your dog doesn’t mind. It also has stretchable ribbing in the belly to give your dog plenty of room to move.

The hoodie is made from polyester, and there is not much on it for your dog to destroy or that can hurt them. So, if nothing else, this costume should last the night.

Best for: fans of classic Halloween styles

2. Frisco Stegosaurus Dinosaur Dog

Kids love dinosaurs, and if you have a dinosaur-obsessed kid at home, Halloween can be the perfect opportunity to transform your pooch into one of their favorites.

This Stegosaurus costume comes in two pieces, a bodysuit and a hat. It is made from a metallic, scaly-looking fabric and has the all-important Stegosaurus horns all along the back.

The costume goes over your dog’s back and then you secure it under the neck and the belly with straps. There are four leg holes and a tail sock. But if your dog is not overly cooperative with these parts, the costume still looks good if you let these hang down the sides.

There are six sizes available from X-Small to XX-Large, so there should be something right for your dog.

There are quite a lot of things going on with this costume, so lots of things for your dog to latch onto and destroy. But as is the case with all doggy Halloween costumes, you should be supervising them while they are wearing it. But the polyester costume is pretty sturdy.

Best for: anyone with a dinosaur-loving child in the house!

3. Rubie’s Costume Company Walking Yoda Dog Costume

Star Wars fans rejoice! You can now dress as a Jedi and have your dog accompany you as your own little Yoda in this officially licensed Star Wars product.

This is a walking costume that fits over your dog’s head and front paws, and it looks like the character is walking on two legs beside you. So cute. Simply slide his front legs in, secure around the neck, and apply the separate Yoda headpiece. Yoda even has his own lightsaber in one hand.

Designed for medium and larger dogs, it’s made from a fleece fabric that will feel nice against your dog’s skin.

Your kids are sure to get a lot of attention—and candy—if they are accompanied by this adorable defender of The Force.

Best for: Star Wars fans!

4. California Costumes UPS Delivery Driver Dog Costume

Dogs are among the nightmares of delivery drivers everywhere, so turn that game on its head and dress your pup up as a UPS delivery driver for the evening.

This is a two-piece costume with step-in shirt and matching headpiece, all decorated with genuine UPS logos.

Simply step their legs into the front sleeves and secure around the neck, and then put on the matching headpiece. There is an optional parcel you can place in the hands of your UPS driver. It secures to the hands with fuzzy fasteners.

The polyester costume is available in four sizes with a number of options to suit larger breeds.

Best for: pups that enjoy terrorizing the mail carrier

5. Frisco Jack O’Lantern Pumpkin Dog Hoodie

The jack-o-’lantern is another classic Halloween theme, and your dog will look cute in this affordable, all orange costume.

This polyester hoodie comes in six sizes to suit all dogs, though you do have to pass it over their head. The stretch ribbed fabric will make this a bit easier.

The costume is a commanding orange with a black jack-o-’lantern printed on the back, and it also has a leash hole so your dog can wear their collar and leash underneath.

Unlike a lot of options, there’s nothing for your dog to get their teeth into with this costume, so it could last you several Halloweens.

Best for: anyone who enjoys pumpkin carving.

6. Rubie’s Dog Company Walking Thor Dog Costume

You will probably see more kids dressed as Marvel characters on the street than anything else. Let your dog join in the trend with this adorable Thor costume.

This is a walking costume, so it looks like you have a mini-version of the character at your side, complete with hammer in hand.

Your pup just needs to step their front legs into the costume, which you can then secure around their back. There is a separate headpiece, which is quite large compared to many other costume options, so perhaps prepare yourself for objections.

Made from strong polyester, it comes in four sizes and has padded arms and a hammer. Luckily, your dog is unable to reach these with their mouth once the costume is on. If you supervise your pet, the costume should certainly last the evening.

Best for: Marvel movie buffs

7. Rubie’s Costume Company Batman Dog Costume

If you are on the other side of the movie battlefield and you are more a fan of DC Comics, then why not dress your pup as Batman, as inspired by the original TV series (no dark leather suits here).

This officially licensed costume uses a T-shirt design that you will have to slip over your dog’s head and then fastens at the back with fuzzy fasteners.

There is then a cape that you can attach and faux-leather bat ears to top off the look. This is a better option than some of the Batman suits that include masks, as most dogs simply won’t accept anything over the eyes.

Best for: lovers of the DC superhero universe

8. Rubie’s Costume Company Snow White Disney Princess Dog Costume

If your pup is a lady, and you want them to look like one, try this Disney princess costume that will make them the fairest of them all, just like Snow White.

The glittery fabric replicates the famous costume from the film and is a step-in costume that closes at the back, specifically designed for larger dogs (it is not only teacup pooches that can be princesses).

The bow headpiece adds the final touch for an authentic and officially licensed Disney Princess look for your dog.

This is such a nice costume, you will probably find occasions other than Halloween that are an excuse to bring it out.

Best for: proper princesses

9. Rubie’s Costume Company Yoga Ears Dog Costume

Not every dog will accept a costume—some simply don’t like having so much fabric on their bodies. But that doesn’t mean they can’t dress up.

Keep things simple with these cute and immediately recognizable Yoda ears that will transform your pooch into your own little Jedi.

The headband has an elastic strap and convenient fuzzy fasteners so it is simple to put on. Available in two sizes.

Best for: picky pups

10. Frisco Red Lobster Dog Costume

While a lobster may not be a classic Halloween theme, this costume is so cute it just had to be on the list.

Transform your pup into a lobster with this cape costume that fastens under the neck and belly. A matching headpiece with eyes and antennae complete the overall look.

There is a built-in leash hole so you can keep your dog secure while wandering the street trick-or-treating, and the strong polyester means it can withstand a lot of wear and tear.

Best for: anyone looking for something a little different

11. BONUS: Lion Dog Costume

I know you can buy the lion’s mane dog costume online now, but back in the day we made our own lion’s mane for our yellow Labrador Retriever, Derby.

We basically took a wolfman mask and turned it into Derby’s majestic mane. A few trick or treaters actually asked if he was a lion.

Check out our short lion’s mane DIY tutorial if you want to make your own costume.

Best for:

Dog Halloween Costume Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing a Halloween costume for your dog, naturally you are going to want to choose something that fits with your sartorial tastes for the season. But this is not the only thing to consider.

Not all dogs like to be restricted by fabrics, and so may rebel when certain things are passed over their heads. There are also some materials that can be dangerous to your dog, especially anything they can get into their mouths and swallow.

So when choosing the right costume for your dog, consider these factors.

Putting On And Removal

Ideally, you will want something that is simple to put on and remove. While your dog might put up with you passing something over their head, they are unlikely to sit patiently while you fasten 20 buttons. Look for something that is pull-on or has easy fasteners.

Some dogs are more tolerant of having things passed over their head than others. You will know how your dog feels about this and will need to choose their costume accordingly.

If there are fastenings, look out for things that might irritate your dog, such as Velcro.

Comfort

If your dog is not accustomed to wearing clothes, a Halloween costume is going to take some getting used to. Make that easier by choosing a costume that is comfortable. It shouldn’t be too tight anywhere, or so loose that it rubs against their skin in an uncomfortable way. Fabric with a bit of stretch for movement is always going to be the best choice.

Collar And Lead

If you are taking your dog out onto the street in their costume, you are going to want to ensure they can also use their collar and lead. Make sure there is space in their costume for it and that there is an opening for their lead to extend out the back of the costume.

Safety

They often say that buying clothes for a dog is like buying clothes for a baby. You don’t really want anything with buttons, bows, or pockets. Nothing that they can rip off, swallow, and get their noses caught in.

Never choose anything with zippers.

Eye Coverings

While dogs may put up with a headpiece for a few hours, don’t get anything that will cover their eyes. There is no faster way to invite your dog to try tearing off their costume the moment you finish putting it on.

Remember that your dog should be supervised at all times in their costume. This is not “normal” for them, so they are likely to get themselves into trouble if left to their own devices.

FAQs Dog Halloween Costumes

Is It OK For Dogs To Wear Clothes?

It is OK for dogs to wear clothes some of the time, like on Halloween. The problem is that dogs can easily overheat, so keep an eye out for the early signs of this, such as panting.

What Is The Most Popular Halloween Costume For Dogs?

The pumpkin is the most popular Halloween costume for dogs, followed by a hotdog and superheroes of all shapes and sizes. But as so many more options emerge onto the market, we are seeing more imaginative and unexpected costume ideas.

How Do I Make A Halloween Costume At Home?

When it comes to making a Halloween costume at home for your dog, think simplicity. If you want a full-body costume, think of a cape design you can simply lay on their back and secure under their neck and belly. A headpiece is then a good choice to finish off the costume, but make sure it does not cover your dog’s eyes.

You may be tempted to embellish with lots of decorations, and that can be great, but remember to avoid anything that’s a choking hazard for your dog. In fact, avoid anything they might be able to grab in their mouths, as it just means they will destroy their costume.

Final Thoughts

The perfect doggie Halloween costume will complement your own and make your pooch the star of the party. But the perfect costume is also safe and comfortable for your dog.

So, when shopping around for the perfect sartorial option, remember to do a quick health and safety check of the outfit to make sure it helps your dog have an enjoyable evening rather than causing them significant discomfort.

Do you like to dress your pup up for Halloween? What costumes have you chosen? Share your ideas in the comments section below.

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The 10 Best Halloween Costumes For Big Dogs - Yellow Lab wearing lions mane Halloween dog costume holding plush pumpkin in his mouth. — The 10 Best Halloween Costumes For Big Dogs

Top Picks For Our Dogs

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We Like: Calmeroos Puppy Toy w/ Heartbeat and Heat Packs - Perfect for new puppies. Helps ease anxiety in their new home.
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We Like: Crazy Dog Train Me Treats - One of our favorite treats for training our service dog puppies.
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We Like: The Farmer's Dog - A couple months ago we started feeding Raven fresh dog food and she loves it! Get 50% off your first order of The Farmer's Dog.

For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining.com blog.