Halloween is here, and that means candy, costumes, and spooky decorations—but not all treats are safe for your four-legged friends. As much as we love sharing the fun, some traditional human snacks can be toxic or harmful for dogs. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with the best and worst treats to keep your pup happy, healthy, and included in the festivities.
The Worst Halloween Snacks for Dogs
Some common Halloween goodies can pose serious health risks:
- Chocolate – The big no-no. Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, or even death.
- Xylitol-Sweetened Candy – Found in sugar-free gum and candies, xylitol can trigger a dangerous drop in blood sugar and liver damage.
- Hard Candies & Lollipops – Can cause choking or damage teeth.
- Candy with Nuts – Especially macadamia nuts, which are toxic to dogs, causing weakness, vomiting, and tremors.
- Grapes & Raisins – Occasionally included in Halloween baked goods, these can lead to kidney failure in dogs.
Tip: Keep all human candy out of reach and educate visiting trick-or-treaters not to feed your dog.
The Best Halloween Snacks for Dogs
Don’t worry—you can still let your pup join in the fun with treats that are safe, tasty, and even nutritious:
- PawCo Magic Cookies & Bars – Handcrafted, science-backed, and full of functional nutrients. Bonus: They smell so good, they might trick you, too!
- Pumpkin Treats – Pumpkin is gentle on the stomach, supports digestion, and is naturally low in calories.
- Carrot & Apple Bites – Naturally sweet, crunchy, and full of fiber and antioxidants.
- Peanut Butter Snacks – Make sure it’s xylitol-free. Dogs love the flavor, and it pairs well with fruits or whole-grain bases.
- Frozen Yogurt Drops or Cubes – Perfect for warm Halloween nights and gentle on tummies.
Tip: Portion control matters—even safe snacks should be given in moderation to prevent tummy upsets.
DIY Halloween Fun
Want to get creative? Try these easy, dog-friendly ideas:
- Pumpkin & Peanut Butter Bites: Mix canned pumpkin with a little peanut butter, shape into small balls, and freeze for a crunchy snack.
- Apple Monsters: Slice apples into fun shapes and top with a small dollop of yogurt.
- Dog-Friendly Trick-or-Treat Bags: Include small portions of Magic Cookies, Mini Bars, and toppers for neighbors with pups.
These ideas let your dog enjoy the season without any risk, keeping the fun alive for both pets and humans.
Halloween Safety Tips
- Supervise treats and portions to avoid overeating.
- Remove any wrapper or small pieces that could be a choking hazard.
- Stick to your dog’s regular meal schedule to prevent stomach upset.
- Keep toxic decorations and candles out of reach.
Conclusion
Halloween is a season for treats and fun, but your dog’s safety should always come first. Stick to dog-friendly snacks like PawCo’s Magic Cookies and Bars, pumpkin, and peanut butter treats, and avoid chocolate, xylitol, and other toxic goodies. With a little planning, your pup can enjoy a spooky, safe, and delicious Halloween—no tricks required.