It's nearly that time again: Halloween is just around the corner, and Fasnacht (Swiss carnival) comes round faster than you think. Many dog owners want to dress their four-legged friend for the occasion. A dog costume can be great fun, for the dog and for the whole family. But for the outing to be a real success, the costume needs to do three things: it has to be safe, fit properly and be comfortable to wear. Our brand dog Vico has tested a costume or two and made it very clear what works and what doesn't. Here are the key points to look for when buying.
Safety first: what a good dog costume must do
The most important point right up front: a costume must never restrict or endanger your dog. Make sure the eyes, ears, nose and mouth stay free. Your dog must be able to see, hear, pant and drink normally at all times. Freedom of movement is just as crucial: the legs and joints must not be constricted, so your dog can walk, sit and relieve himself normally.
Also check the costume for small parts such as buttons, ribbons or sewn-on decorations. Anything that can be chewed off and swallowed has no place on a dog. Avoid costumes with elastic that cuts in tightly, and never leave your dog unsupervised in a costume. For the evening walk, one more thing: the costume should not cover the collar or harness, so the lead and visibility remain guaranteed.
The right size: measure, don't guess
The most common mistake when buying a costume is the size. A costume that is too tight pinches and chafes; one that is too loose slips and becomes a tripping hazard. So measure your dog in three places before ordering: neck circumference, chest circumference at the widest point behind the front legs, and back length from the base of the neck to the base of the tail.
Always compare these measurements with the size chart of the specific product, because sizes vary from model to model. With our BearHug costume, for example, the chart runs from S with a 32 cm chest to XXL with a 52 cm chest. If your dog falls between two sizes, choose the larger one when in doubt. And if the size you ordered doesn't fit after all: with us you can simply order the right size and return the costume that doesn't fit.
Comfort: material and handling
No dog will happily wear a costume that scratches or rustles. Look for soft, skin-friendly materials without hard seams on the belly and under the front legs. For the colder months, warming fabrics are ideal: the BearHug costume, for instance, is made of thick double-sided fleece and keeps your dog warm on cold days as a bonus. The hood with bear ears is easy to put up and take down, so the head stays free if your dog prefers it that way.
Adjustable fastenings are also practical. The WienerWoof Hotdog costume, for example, has adjustable straps that let you fine-tune the fit, and it goes on and comes off quickly. That's exactly what you should look for in general: the easier the costume is to put on and take off, the less stressful the whole thing is for your dog.
Get your dog used to the costume slowly
Even the best costume takes some getting used to. Let your dog sniff the costume first and reward him for it. Then put it on only briefly, praise him and take it off again. Increase the wearing time in small steps over several days. That way your dog associates the costume with something positive. Vico eyed his bear costume with suspicion at first too; a few treats soon settled the matter.
Watch your dog closely while you do this. A tucked tail, flattened ears, constant scratching or freezing up are clear signs that the costume is uncomfortable for him. If so: take the costume off and try again calmly later, or switch to a lighter option. Some dogs are simply happier in a festive bandana than in a full-body costume, and that is perfectly fine too.
Costume ideas for Halloween and Fasnacht
Still looking for the right outfit? In our Dog costumes collection you'll find a selection of costumes we have chosen according to exactly these criteria. The classic is the cuddly BearHug costume from CHF 19.95, available in white and brown and in five sizes from S to XXL. If you prefer something with a sense of humour, the WienerWoof Hotdog costume from CHF 19.95 is the right pick, an eye-catcher at any costume party. Both models rely on soft materials and straightforward handling.
With the right size, a little patience while your dog settles in and a watchful eye on his well-being, nothing stands in the way of costume fun together. Have a great time dressing up!
Frequently asked questions
How long can my dog wear a costume?
As briefly as possible, as long as necessary. For a photo shoot or a party, 30 to 60 minutes is usually enough. Give your dog breaks without the costume in between and make sure he doesn't overheat, especially in heated rooms.
What size do I need for my dog?
Measure your dog's neck circumference, chest circumference and back length and compare the values with the size chart on the product page. If your dog falls between two sizes, choose the larger one. If you get it wrong, you can easily exchange it for the right size with us.
What do I do if my dog doesn't like the costume?
Don't force him. Get him used to it in small steps with rewards. If he stays stressed, switch to a lighter alternative such as a festive bandana. Your dog's well-being always comes first.
