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Dog Training Guidance

Top Tips for Halloween

20 Oct, 2022

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From late October, all manner of Halloween decorations will begin to appear on lawns and around homes. Puppies and older dogs can be easily spooked by new things appearing on their normal walk route. Here are some tips to help.

1) Listen to your dog and watch their body language. If they are unsure, let them decide whether or not to approach an item. Normally, once they have a sniff and establish it’s ok they will calm down. If you dog backs away or barks it’s best to keep moving. Do not scold your dog for being scared. Try to reassure them calmly. Also do not force your dog to approach the item they are unsure of.

2) Some dogs may want to play/chew/destroy decorations. If you know this is likely, just manage the situation by keeping them on lead and giving an items wide berth. The property owner / children are unlikely to be happy with their decorations being wrecked.

3) Ensure your dog is not left alone/unsupervised/off lead anywhere they can approach pumpkins with lit candles inside.

4) Keep treats (especially chocolate treats) out of reach of all dogs. If you dog is going trick or treating too remember that “treat lantern” may be swinging around at a very accessible height (in a child’s hand).

5) Avoid having your dog loose and within easy access of the front door if you’re going to welcome trick or treaters. Keep them busy in another room for the night and take them out early for their walk. Imagine how spooky a 2ft walking skeleton with a devil mask is to an unsuspecting puppy! Remember Halloween is great fun for children and adults but as responsible owners we need to ensure our dogs are not put into situations where they may panic.

Enjoy the celebrations!

Louise Burton IMDT
Hilton Dogs Training Academy

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