Halloween brings fun, creativity, and a touch of spooky excitement to homes across St. Charles County. But for our dogs, some decorations can turn frightening or even harmful. Flashing lights, fake spider webs, and electric cords can look like toys to a curious pup. Knowing which Halloween decorations are dangerous for dogs can help you keep the season fun and safe for everyone.
Dogs explore the world with their noses and mouths, which makes them more likely to chew or swallow new things around the house. The American Kennel Club (AKC) warns that small décor items like rubber spiders, fake eyeballs, or plastic skeleton parts can be choking hazards if swallowed.
The ASPCA also reminds pet parents that many seasonal items contain materials that can irritate or block a dog’s digestive system if eaten.
Even decorations that are not poisonous can cause harm when chewed. Cords, fake webs, and light strings can lead to electric shocks or cuts in a dog’s mouth. Dogs that panic around motion-activated decorations may injure themselves trying to escape.
Those orange lights and inflatable ghosts add charm but also temptation. If your dog chews on cords, they can be shocked or burned. Keep cords out of reach or block off decorated areas when your dog is outside.
Jack-o’-lanterns and scented candles look festive, but they can burn a curious nose or wagging tail. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends keeping pets away from candles and open flames and using flameless LED alternatives for a safer glow.
Stretchy webs can trap paws or faces and, if swallowed, can cause intestinal blockages. Keep them up high or outside areas where pets play.
Jumping skeletons and loud screaming ghosts can startle dogs, especially those sensitive to sound. Fear can cause barking, hiding, or even running off. Always test new props while your dog is nearby in daylight to gauge their reaction.
Glow sticks and jewelry contain chemicals that can irritate your dog’s mouth and cause drooling or vomiting if chewed. The Pet Poison Helpline explains that while glow fluid is rarely deadly, it is unpleasant and stressful for pets. Fog machines can also bother pets with asthma or sensitive airways.
Decorating safely is simple once you know what to avoid.
Place decorations above a dog’s eye level.
Hide cords behind furniture or fencing.
Use battery-powered candles and low-noise décor.
Keep candy and wrappers off the floor before, during, and after Halloween night.
Give your dog a quiet room inside with their favorite toys and soft music when trick-or-treaters arrive. The familiar space helps reduce stress from all the commotion.
A clean yard helps protect your pets year-round. Doggy Doods provides dependable poop pickup for families in Wentzville, O’Fallon, St. Charles, and surrounding areas in St. Charles County. Our reliable, family-focused service keeps local yards clean, sanitary, and safe for pets and kids.
By removing waste regularly, you reduce bacteria and odors that attract wildlife or pests. It is one of the easiest ways to maintain a healthy, worry-free yard during every season, especially around the holidays when decorations and visitors add extra activity outside.
If keeping up with cleanup feels like one more thing on your list, we can help. Get a free quote today to enjoy a clean, healthy yard for your family and your pets.
What are your dogs’ reactions to Halloween decorations? Do flashing lights or spooky sounds make them bark, hide, or investigate? We’d love to hear your stories and see your safe, dog-friendly decorations!
Share your thoughts in the comments below. Your tip might help another local pet family keep their pup safe this Halloween. 🐾🎃
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