40 Funny Dog Halloween Costumes for the Silliest Pup You Know
In our humble opinion, achieving ultimate costume success means including your dog. Funny dog Halloween costumes have the power to lift spirits, conjure laughter and bewitch neighbors. We’ve rounded up some top-notch looks for your pup below.
How to measure your dog
First things first, make sure you know your dog’s size before ordering or designing any ensemble. The American Kennel Club says the three primary measurements you need are the chest, neck and back.
Chest: Measure around the largest part of your dog’s chest as he stands upright. Guide a cloth measuring tape around the rib cage and behind the front legs. Be sure to leave enough space so you can fit two fingers between the tape and your dog’s body.
Neck: This measurement is pretty easy if your dog wears a collar (you can simply measure the length of the collar). Or, you can use a cloth measuring tape and wrap it around the neck, from the middle of the shoulder blades to the top of the chest and back up the other side.
Back: Measure along the spine from the base of the neck to the base of the tail. Don’t lift the measuring tape in the air! Run it along the spine for a more accurate measurement.
Head: Some of the costumes on our list are just hats or headpieces. For those measurements, start at the highest point on your dog’s head then move down under the chin.
When in doubt, choose a larger size. Your dog will thank you (and be able to move freely). These measurements are also helpful when choosing a harness or sweater for your dog.
Don’t push it
If your dog hates Halloween costumes (or wearing any type of clothing), don’t force it. You don’t want to turn a fun time into a traumatic event. There are tons of ways to include your canine in your festivities sans costume. For instance, Dorothy’s Toto from The Wizard of Oz doesn’t wear anything! Donning a blue dress with red shoes and keeping your pup by your side makes for a colorful—and uncomplicated—costume.
Dog-friendly treats
Finally, make sure your dog is treated like royalty for dressing up and participating in any sort of celebration. There is an abundance of delicious snacks available for dogs these days, even if your pup is dealing with specific health issues. Plus, if you’ve got the extra time, whipping up a batch of homemade dog treats is always an option.
Without further ado, here are 40 funny dog Halloween costumes for your sweet pup.
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1. Formal Tuxedo
If you’re having a chill date night with your favorite animal pal, this tux is perfect. It also works well for anyone incorporating their dog into a wedding.
2. Spooky Mummy
If it's the classic Halloween vibe you are going for, look no further than this comfy mummy pajama ensemble.
3. Werewolf
Let your dog pretend he’s a viscous werewolf for a night in this extra hairy get up.
4. Black Cat
We can’t promise this won’t bring you seven years of bad luck, nor can we promise your dog won’t be furious you dressed him up as a FELINE.
5. Freddy Krueger from A Nightmare on Elm Street
For anyone indulging in lots of scary movies this year. Also for people who enjoy being reminded of said movies every time they look at the dog.
6. Killer Doll
See above and multiply by five.
7. Headless Rider
Honestly, any costume that tricks you into thinking something—or someone—is riding your dog like a horse, is going to be a huge hit.
8. Axe Headpiece
This is definitely a shocking costume that will give people a good scare, hopefully followed by a hearty laugh.
9. Frankenstein’s Monster
A nice, warm and spooky option if you do plan on walking around outdoors on a crisp Halloween eve.
10. Monster
There is something delightfully adorable about these pink and blue monster costumes. Is the spiky fur? The pointy teeth? The big eyes? All of it!
11. Mike Wazowski from ‘Monster’s Inc.’
A different type of cute monster, complete with a funny hat and a giant eyeball.
12. Cookie Monster
Yet another monster interpretation—this one with a cookie twist.
13. Minnie Mouse
Calling all Disney fans! These ears (and bow) are festive and perfect for any pup who refuses to wear a full costume but wants to be included.
14. Mickey Mouse
If your dog does want to show off his Disney pride, go all out with this Mickey outfit.
15. Goofy
For dogs who enjoy being the class clown or look like they are constantly smiling.
16. Minion
Just as goofy, but with more overalls. Be prepared for children far and wide to point at your dog with utter joy.
17. Where’s Waldo
A spectacular option for families with kids looking for an interactive Waldo adventure.
18. Beauty & the Beast
If your dog’s name is Beast, you’ve got to go this route. If your dog’s name is Belle, there’s a an apropos gown for that too.
19. Cinderella
No glass slippers involved. Extra points if the wig stays on all night.
20. Dumbo
Your dog will be all ears as you explain to him how much better dressed he is than the other dogs on your block this Halloween.
19. A Pumpkin
Perfect for snuggling.
20. A Three-Headed Monster
Triple the cuteness.
21. A Chia Pet
Got plants? Great! You’ve got a Halloween costume.
22. Waldo
The best part of this one: You can re-use it come Christmas.
23. Hipster
Throw your dog in a flannel, and then pretend to take him to Brooklyn.
24. A Bear
Ready for treats (and tricks of course).
25. A Piñata
Because a piñata filled with a puppy is better than one stuffed with candy.
26. A Hot Dog
This one isn’t only for dachshunds.
27. A Taco
Exponentially funnier if it’s on a Chihuahua.
28. A Sleepyhead
Extra treats for onesie PJs.
29. Super Dog
Stopping crime one Petco robbery at a time.
30. Batman
Ready to serve and protect Gotham City.
31. A Shark
Stay out of the water...
32. A minion
A costume that the whole family can get in on.
33. A Lion Cub
Today, you shall be called Simba.
34. Cops and Robber
We know which one is the good boy.
35. A lobster
Claws, paws, same diff.
36. Ladybug
This one’s lucky.
37. Tinkerbell
All you need is wings.
38. The Pope
Holy cow dog.
Additional reporting by Alexandra Hough