Best Costumes for Small Dogs

Written by Ashley Haugen
Updated: November 18, 2022
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Halloween is approaching, and your small dog is just itching to prance down the streets of its neighborhood just as dressed-up as any child! Dog owners know that no two dogs are alike, and therefore, there is no one-size-fits-all Halloween costume for dogs. Big dogs deserve big dog costumes, and small dogs deserve small dog costumes. If your pup falls into the “small dog” category, these are the best costumes for your pooch this Halloween.

  1. California Costumes Pet Spider Pup Dog Costume
    • Full-body design
    • Features hood with 4 yellow eyes
    • All 8 legs have fuzzy orange fur
    • Available in 4 sizes
    Check Amazon
  2. Petitebella Ghost Face Dog Dress

    •Cute but funky dog ghost dress

    •Comfortable

    •Size XS-XXXL

    Check Amazon
  3. California Costume Collections UPS Dog Costume

    •Step-in UPS costume for dogs

    •Package is removable

    •S-L sizes


    Check Amazon
  4. Mogoko Funny Dog Shark Costume
    • Available in gray or blue
    • The hood pulls down to make it look like your dog has real shark teeth
    • Features inner microfiber for comfort
    • Outer material is soft velvet
    • Easy to put on with elastic and button closures
    Check Amazon
  5. California Costumes Pet Pupasaurus Rex Dog Costume Costume

    •2-piece dinosaur costume

    •Padded body section, head section separate

    •Comfortable & cute

    •Various sizes

    Check Amazon
  6. Coomour Halloween Dog Costume

    •Harry Potter cape & tie costume for pets

    •Glasses & bowtie included

    •S-XL sizes

    Check Amazon
  7. California Costumes Pet Deadly Doll Dog Costume Costume

    •Signature Chucky doll dog costume

    •Face-framing for realism

    •Easy wear

    •XS-M sizes

    Check Amazon
  8. Zoo Snoods Baby Yoda Dog Costume

    •Yoda headpiece costume for dogs

    •Simple, comfortable design

    •S-L sizes

    Check Amazon
  9. Rubie's Star Wars Ewok Pet Costume

    •Ewok dog costume

    •Star Wars licensed shop

    •Easy wear & adjustable

    •Various sizes

    Check Amazon
  10. Rubie's Disney: Nightmare Before Christmas Zero Pet Costume

    •2 piece Zero costume for dogs

    •Easy wear

    •S-XL sizing

    Check Amazon
  11. Pandaloon Panda Puppy Dog Pet Costume

    •Full-length panda costume for dogs

    •Step-in, easy wear

    •Various sizes & adjustable

    Check Amazon
  12. Rubie's Disney: Frozen 2 Olaf Pet Costume

    •Adorable Olaf costume for dogs

    •Step in, easy wear

    •S-XL sizes

    Check Amazon
  13. Coomour Funny Hoodies Skeleton Costume for Dogs

    •Skeleton hoodie costume for dogs

    •Comfortable fabric

    •Easy wear

    •XS-3XL sizing

    Check Amazon

#1 Best Overall: California Costumes Pet Spider Pup Dog Costume

We’ve chosen the best overall costume for small dogs as the California Costumes Pet Spider Pup Dog Costume.

California Costumes makes this super-spooky spider costume for dogs, and will easily transform your cute and cuddly pup into a ferocious, hairy spider. Compared to other costumes that just make a dog look like a big spider is on its back, your entire dog will look like a spider with this costume. The full-body design features a hood with four scary yellow eyes. Each of the eight spider legs also has fuzzy orange fur for an even creepier look.

This costume is available in four different size options — extra-small, small, medium, and large — meaning that it fits most dogs. It is also made from 100% polyester fabric which is safe and comfortable for your pup.

Although this costume has plenty going for it, the downside is that some buyers found the legs to hang more limp that the photo portrays.

Pros and Cons of the California Costumes Pet Spider Pup Dog Costume

ProsCons
This costume features a full-body design with a hood.The legs to hang more limp that the photo portrays.
It is made from 100% polyester fabric.
There are a range of sizes available.
Best Overall
California Costumes Pet Spider Pup Dog Costume
  • Full-body design
  • Features hood with 4 yellow eyes
  • All 8 legs have fuzzy orange fur
  • Available in 4 sizes
Check Amazon

2. Best Dog Ghost Costume: Petitebella Ghost Face Dog Dress

For a spook-tacular ghost costume we have chosen the Petitebella Ghost Face Dog Dress.

This black and white costume is designed like a dog dress, and the ghost’s face — which goes over the dog’s back — features a wide-open, surprised mouth with large black eyeballs. The cute skirt has black and white stripes and is adorned with a small black bow. It simply slips on over the dog’s head for ease too.

The cotton material means it’s super soft and comfortable against your dog’s skin. It is also lightweight and a much better option for warmer climates than many other heavier costumes.

With seven different sizes available, you should be able to find the perfect fit for your pooch. The seven sizes (X-small, small, medium, large, X-large, XX-large, and XXX-large) fit dogs with a chest girth between 11.4 and 27.5 inches, a neck girth between 7.1 and 16.5 inches, and a back length between 7.5 and 21.3 inches. However, pup parents have reported that the sizes run small so sizing up is advised.

Find more verified and reviewed ghost costumes for dogs here.

Pros and Cons of the Petitebella Ghost Face Dog Dress

ProsCons
This costume is a uniquely-designed dog dress.The sizes run small so sizing up is advised.
It has a simple slide-on design.
It is made from lightweight cotton material.
There are seven sizes available
Best Ghost Costume
Petitebella Ghost Face Dog Dress

•Cute but funky dog ghost dress

•Comfortable

•Size XS-XXXL

Check Amazon

3. Best UPS Dog Costume: California Costumes UPS Pet Costume

If you fancy trying out something different with your pet then an excellent choice is the California Costumes UPS Pet Costume.

With this costume your pup will look just like a UPS delivery driver ready to make a special delivery. The step-in outfit is the same brown color that UPS carriers wear and even includes sewn-on arms holding a small box with the UPS logo. A brown UPS hat is also included with the costume for a more complete look. The outfit secures around a dog’s neck to keep it in place. You can also remove the package from the dog’s “hands.” However, customers found that the package doesn’t secure very well as it only uses a small piece of Velcro.

This costume is made from 100% polyester to ensure a soft and comfortable fit for your pet. There are also three sizes available. Dogs with a neck circumference between 12 and 14 inches and a chest circumference between 16 and 20 inches should fit in the size small, dogs with a neck circumference between 14 and 16 inches and a chest circumference between 20 and 24 inches should fit in a medium, and dogs with a neck circumference between 18 and 20 inches and a chest circumference between 24 and 28 inches should fit in a large. However, this does exclude the smallest breeds.

Find more verified and reviewed UPS dog costumes here.

Pros and Cons of the California Costumes UPS Pet Costume

ProsCons
This costume has a simple step-in design which is easy to put on and take off.The sizes are not suitable for very small dogs.
It includes sewn-on arms holding a small box with the UPS logo. The box can even be removed from the hands.The package doesn’t stay attached very well.
A hat is included to complete the look.
It is made from 100% polyester which is soft and comfortable to wear.
There are three sizes available to fit pets with a neck circumference between 12 and 28 inches.
Best UPS Costume
California Costume Collections UPS Dog Costume

•Step-in UPS costume for dogs

•Package is removable

•S-L sizes


Check Amazon

4. Best Shark Costume: Mogoko Funny Dog Shark Costume

If you fancy turning your pet into the cutest shark around then check out the Mogoko Funny Dog Shark Costume.

This costume is available with either a blue or gray color for a customized look that will coordinate with your dog’s fur color or the costumes of other family members. The jaws are integrated into the hood which pulls over the dog’s head to make them look like they have real shark teeth. However, some owners have found that it doesn’t stay up well while their pups are running around.

This costume features an inner microfiber material to ensure comfort against a dog’s skin and outer soft velvet material. These materials are both warm and cozy, making this costume a better choice for cooler fall or winter weather. However, this does mean they can overheat easily in warmer climates or if they are running around a lot while wearing it.

You’ll find that this costume is easy to put on your dog. It is designed with elastic and four button closures, so you’ll be able to get your pup dressed quickly and get them out of the costume when they’ve had enough.

This shark costume comes in eight different sizes to fit dogs with a neck girth between 9.4 and 21.2 inches and a chest girth between 13 and 30.3 inches.

Find more verified and reviewed shark costumes for dogs here.

Pos and Cons of the Mogoko Funny Dog Shark Costume

ProsCons
This costume features an inner microfiber and outer velvet material which is soft and comfortable.The material is thick and can cause dogs to overheat easily.
It has four button closures to make it easy to put on and take off.The hood doesn’t stay up very well.
This costume has an integrated hood which pulls up to look like it is the jaws of the shark.
There are eight different sizes available.
Overall Best
Mogoko Funny Dog Shark Costume
  • Available in gray or blue
  • The hood pulls down to make it look like your dog has real shark teeth
  • Features inner microfiber for comfort
  • Outer material is soft velvet
  • Easy to put on with elastic and button closures
Check Amazon

5. Best Dinosaur Costume: California Costumes Pet Pupasaurus Rex Dog Costume

The California Costumes Pet Pupasaurus Rex Dog Costume will transform your cuddly canine into a ferocious, but still cute, raptor!

This is a two-piece set that includes a whole-body, foam-padded dinosaur costume with a long raptor tail and a separate raptor headpiece. The foam padding is a great feature as it means that this costume will always be completely comfortable for your pet. However, care should be taken as pets can become a little hot while wearing it.

The Pupasaurus Rex costume is available in small, medium, and large sizes to fit dogs between 12 and 20 inches long with a neck circumference between 12 and 20 inches and a chest circumference between 16 and 28 inches. However, some customers found that the headpiece was a bit bulky and didn’t always stay up that well.

Find more verified and reviewed dinosaur costumes for dogs here.

Pros and Cons of the California Costumes Pet Pupasaurus Rex Dog Costume

ProsCons
This costume has a separate body and headpiece.The headpiece is bulky and doesn’t always stay upright.
The foam padding ensures a comfortable fit.The foam padding can be too hot for dogs.
This costume is available in three different sizes to fit a range of dogs.
Best Dinosaur Costume
California Costumes Pet Pupasaurus Rex Dog Costume Costume

•2-piece dinosaur costume

•Padded body section, head section separate

•Comfortable & cute

•Various sizes

Check Amazon

6. Best Harry Potter Costume: Coomour Halloween Dog Costume

Our selection as the best Harry Potter costume is the Coomour Halloween Dog Costume which will make your pup look just like the famous wizard himself.

This costume features a black cape with an attached tie to go around your dog’s neck. A pair of signature Harry Potter glasses are also included — meaning your dog really will look just like Harry Potter!

If you’d prefer to make your dog look like one of the other wizards from the movie, such as Draco Malfoy from Slytherin, then there are multiple tie color options available. Choose from red, blue, green, and yellow ties.

There are four different costume sizes available: small, medium, large, and extra-large. The sizing guide from the manufacturer can help you select the right fit for dogs with a neck circumference between 14.4 and 23.6 inches and a back length between 11.8 and 23.6 inches.

Although this costume has a lot of things going for it, some customers have complained that the glasses fall right off and suggested that a strap to hold them in place was necessary. Also, some customers reported that this costume was not very durable.

Find more verified and reviewed Harry Potter dog costumes here.

Pros and Cons of the Coomour Halloween Dog Costume

ProsCons
This costume features a cape, tie, and a set of glasses.The glasses lack anything to hold them in place and fall off.
There are four different color options for the tie.Some customers reported that the material is not durable.
There are a range of sizes available to fit most dogs.
Best Harry Potter Costume
Coomour Halloween Dog Costume

•Harry Potter cape & tie costume for pets

•Glasses & bowtie included

•S-XL sizes

Check Amazon

7. Best Chucky Costume: California Costumes Pet Deadly Doll Dog Costume

To make your dog look truly terrifying we have chosen the California Costumes Pet Deadly Doll Dog Costume.

This outfit’s step-in design will make it quick and easy to get your dog dressed and ready to go trick-or-treating or to a costume party. The two ties at the top of Chucky’s shirt fasten around the back of your pup’s neck to keep it up and secure.

The overall realness of this costume is unmatched. Chucky is dressed in his signature red and white striped shirt with blue overalls. Padded ‘arms’ are attached to the top of the shirt, and one of the hands is even holding a bloody knife. The knife is held in place with hook-and-loop material that can be removed if you think your dog may chew it or lose it. An orange wig with an elastic band is also included with each outfit.

You can use the sizing guide provided by California Costumes to decide whether an extra-small, small, or medium costume will be the best fit. These three sizes should accommodate dogs with a chest girth between 12 and 24 inches, a neck girth between 10 and 16 inches, and a neck-to-tail length between eight and 16 inches. However, some pup parents have reported that the sizes can run small. Additionally, some said that the arms were a little too floppy.

Find more verified and reviewed Chucky dog costumes here.

Pros and Cons of the California Costumes Pet Deadly Doll Dog Costume

ProsCons
This costume has a step-in design which means it is quick and easy to get your dog dressed.The sizes can run small.
It fastens with two ties at the back of the neck.The arms are floppy.
The knife is held in lace with a hook and loop fastening but can be removed if desired.
This costume comes with an orange wig which is held in place with elastic.
There are three sizes available.
Best Chucky Costume
California Costumes Pet Deadly Doll Dog Costume Costume

•Signature Chucky doll dog costume

•Face-framing for realism

•Easy wear

•XS-M sizes

Check Amazon

8. Best Baby Yoda: Zoo Snoods Baby Yoda Dog Costume

To turn your pup into a cute baby Yoda we have selected the Zoe Snoods Baby Yoda Dog Costume.

This costume is a hand-knitted neck and ear warmer in a brilliant shade of alien green. This is a beautiful, high-quality item that will help your pup stay warm on cold days. Acrylic yarn is incredibly soft and comfortable. It’s also easy to clean.

This adorable costume is perfect for Halloween, Star Wars conventions, or any chilly day. Why wait for a special occasion to dress up your dog like everyone’s favorite baby alien?

Zoo Snoods is a California company that specializes in handmade ear-warmers for dogs. This costume contains no buttons, zippers, or strings that might hurt your dog. It’s only one piece, which makes it easy to put on any dog.

It comes in three sizes, and we recommend you use the manufacturer’s size guide to get the right one for your pet. Please note that some buyers said that it runs too small.

Find more verified and reviewed Baby Yoda dog costumes here.

Pros and Cons of the Zoo Snoods Baby Yoda Dog Costume

ProsCons
This one-piece ear warmer is hand knitted from 100% acrylic yarn.Some buyers said that this costume runs too small.
It’s easy to put on and comfortable for your dog to wear.
It’s available in three sizes.
Best Yoda Costume
Zoo Snoods Baby Yoda Dog Costume

•Yoda headpiece costume for dogs

•Simple, comfortable design

•S-L sizes

Check Amazon

9. Best Ewok Costume: Rubie’s Star Wars Ewok Pet Costume

If you’re a fan of Star Wars then why not turn your pup into an Ewok with the adorable Rubie’s Star Wars Ewok Pet Costume?

This Ewok costume is an officially licensed cotume and has a simple step-in design to help you easily help your pup get dressed and ready to go. It also includes a detachable cape and headpiece with a cowl neck. There are also rounded Ewok ears attached to the top of the headpiece to help complete the look, and the drawstring closure allows you to easily get the headpiece on your pup and keep it in place.

This costume from comes in small, medium, and large sizes for dogs weighing between 6 and 29 pounds. The sizing chart from the manufacturer can help you select the ideal size for your dog in this weight range using their neck-to-tail measurements, neck girth, and waist girth. However, some pet parents have reported that the sizes run small and that sizing up is often required.

Find more verified and reviewed Ewok dog costumes here.

Pros and Cons of Rubie’s Star Wars Ewok Pet Costume

ProsCons
This costume has a simple step-in design.The sizes can run small so sizing up is sometimes needed.
It includes a detachable cape and a separate headpiece.It is not suitable for larger breeds of dogs.
The headpiece has a drawstring closure to keep it in place.
There are a variety of sizes available to fit dogs weighing between six and 29 pounds.
Best Ewok Costume
Rubie's Star Wars Ewok Pet Costume

•Ewok dog costume

•Star Wars licensed shop

•Easy wear & adjustable

•Various sizes

Check Amazon

10. Best Zero Costume: Rubie’s Disney: Nightmare Before Christmas Zero Pet Costume

The best Zero costume is Rubie’s Disney Nightmare Before Christmas Zero Pet Costume.

We think this costume deserves the top spot because it looks just like Zero the ghost dog from the movie. This costume includes a ghost cape that goes over a dog’s neck and a separate Zero headpiece.

The design of this costume will make it quick and easy to get your pup ready for a costume party or trick-or-treating. Simply place the cape over the head to go around the neck and put the headpiece on; then they’ll be ready to go.

This costume is available in a range of sizes from small through to extra-large to fit most dogs. However, customers reported that the sizes run small so sizing up is advised. Additionally, some said that the headpiece did not stay on very well as it lacks anything to fasten it with.

Find more verified and reviewed Zero dog costumes here.

Pros and Cons of Rubie’s Disney: Nightmare Before Christmas Zero Pet Costume

ProsCons
This costume features a cape with a separate headpiece.The sizes run small.
It has a simple slide-on design so pups can be ready to go in minutes.The headpiece lacks anything to fasten it with so it doesn’t stay on very well.
Best Zero Costume
Rubie's Disney: Nightmare Before Christmas Zero Pet Costume

•2 piece Zero costume for dogs

•Easy wear

•S-XL sizing

Check Amazon

11. Overall Best Panda Dog Costume: Pandaloon Panda Puppy Pet Costume

For a cute panda costume we have chosen the Pandaloon Panda Puppy Pet Costume.

This costume is a step-in, frontal outfit with a panda head hoodie. Padded panda arms are attached to the front of the costume to make it appear that your pup is a panda standing upright in front of you.

This costume is made using a very plush material that is soft on the skin. The feet are reinforced for durability and the hood is adjustable to deliver a good fit for your dog’s face. The costume even comes with a little felt bamboo shoot for added effect. If you are looking for a costume that transforms the front half of your pup into a real panda, this is the one!

This costume comes in five sizes: 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 to fit most dogs between 11 and 23 inches tall. It is important to measure your dog’s height before purchasing the costume, as it is jumpsuit-style, not a sweater. Finding the right size is crucial when looking for a costume for your pet, as you don’t want them to be uncomfortable wearing it.

Although this costume has lots going for it, some pup parents have reported that the hood doesn’t stay up very well if their pets shake their head or are running around.

Find more verified and reviewed panda dog costumes here.

Pros and Cons of the Pandaloon Panda Puppy Pet Costume

ProsCons
This costume has a simple step-in design.The hood doesn’t stay up very well.
Padded panda arms are attached to the front of the costume for an authentic appearance.
The feet are reinforced for durability.
The hood is adjustable for a good fit.
It is made from soft material for added comfort.
It is available in several sizes to fit dogs between 11 and 23 inches tall.
Best Panda Costume
Pandaloon Panda Puppy Dog Pet Costume

•Full-length panda costume for dogs

•Step-in, easy wear

•Various sizes & adjustable

Check Amazon

12. Best Olaf Costume: Rubie’s Disney: Frozen 2 Olaf Pet Costume

If you want your dog to look just like Olaf from the movie Frozen, then check out Rubie’s Disney Frozen 2 Olaf Pet Costume.

Dogs easily step into the costume and it is then secured around their neck to make it appear that Olaf is standing right in front of you.

The vertical costume includes details such as Olaf’s three large coal buttons and twig arms (padded arms that are connected to the side of the costume). A separate headpiece featuring Olaf’s large eyes, carrot nose, and cheery smile, and twig “hair” are also included with the costume to complete the look.

Small, medium, large, and extra-large sizes are available for this costume. Most pups who weigh between six and 45 pounds should fit into one of these sizes. However, customers are divided on whether the sizing is too small, too large, or “all over the place.” We suggest that you take their feedback into consideration when selecting the proper size for your dog.

Find more verified and reviewed Olaf dog costumes here.

Pros and Cons of Rubie’s Disney: Frozen 2 Olaf Pet Costume

ProsCons
This is a “step in” costume that you then secure around your dog’s neck.Customers report that sizing is too small, too large, or “all over the place.”
Olaf’s three large coal buttons run down the front of the costume and his padded twig arms are attached to the sides. A separate headpiece with his large eyes, carrot nose, smile, and twig “hair” completes his look.
The costume is available in small, medium, large, and extra-large sizes meant to accommodate dogs weighing between six and 45 pounds.
Best Olaf Costume
Rubie's Disney: Frozen 2 Olaf Pet Costume

•Adorable Olaf costume for dogs

•Step in, easy wear

•S-XL sizes

Check Amazon

13. Best Skeleton Costume: Coomour Halloween Skeleton Costume for Dogs

We chose the Coomour Halloween Skeleton Costume for Dogs as our favourite skeleton costume for several reasons.

First, the t-shirt material feels soft and comfortable. Material like this is perfect for all dogs, especially those who have longer fur and overheat, as well as those with sensitive skin. Cotton is breathable and won’t fit too snugly if you find the right size for your pet.

Dogs wear this costume like a t-shirt, so it is pulled over their heads with their feet placed through the front sleeves. The skeleton bones are nice and large on the back of the t-shirt and will be prominently displayed along your dog’s back, leaving no question to what they are dressed up as. The costume also includes a black hood to further disguise your dog’s fur and draw more attention to the skeleton bones on their back.

You can purchase this costume in a wide range of sizes for dogs weighing between two and 23 pounds. The size options include extra-small, small, medium, large, extra-large, 2X-large, and 3X-large. However, customers have reported that the sizes run a little small and that the costume rides up a little. Although, on the whole this costume has received great feedback.

Find more verified and reviewed skeleton dog costumes here.

Pros and Cons of the Coomour Halloween Skeleton Costume for Dogs

ProsCons
This costume is made from soft T-shirt material which is lightweight and breathable.The sizes run small.
It has a simple pull-on design with no straps or fastenings.It can ride up a little on the back.
It is available in a wide range of sizes to fit most dogs.
Best Skeleton Costume
Coomour Funny Hoodies Skeleton Costume for Dogs

•Skeleton hoodie costume for dogs

•Comfortable fabric

•Easy wear

•XS-3XL sizing

Check Amazon

What to Look For when Choosing a Costume

Color and Design

If you are wanting your little fur baby to stand out in the crowd on Halloween night, there are many costumes, even classic black ones, that include some kind of eye-catching color. When you’re shopping, think about color, and how it may enhance, or detract, from your dog’s overall appearance.

The design of the costume is a very important factor to take into account. While some costumes may look really cool in the product photos, they may only be suitable for still portraits. There have been many reviews from unhappy customers who ordered a dog costume, only to find that their dog couldn’t walk or run in it without issues. With our recommendations for the best dog costumes, we’ve taken how well or not the costume is designed into account to ensure that your dog enjoys its evening out.

Size

For any dog costume to fit properly, the manufacturer needs to include an accurate sizing chart, preferably with measurement ranges for a dog’s neck girth, body length, height, weight, etc. Rather than guessing, you should definitely get out your tape measure and jot down your dog’s measurements before placing an order for a costume.

Have you ever ordered clothing from an online retailer, and when you received it, you found that it ran smaller or bigger than their measuring charts indicated? Well, unfortunately, the same thing can happen when ordering a dog costume. It’s prudent that you read over customer feedback on the costume you are considering to see if there are many complaints about the necessity to size up or down, and adjust your choice in size for your dog if you think it’s necessary.

Comfort and Materials

Your dog will likely be very excited to walk among so many colorful characters, and may even get frisky! So it’s important to choose a quality costume where the construction will hold up to brisk walking, running, or horseplay. At the same time, consider the practicality of the costume. Some costume creators forsake comfort for appearance when they design. This can cause issues if your pet does not like dressing up. Your small or delicate dog doesn’t need unnecessary burdens on its back or head when out and about.

Dogs can also get overheated easily. Costumes made of thick material may be more durable, but can also cause your dog to sweat. Do you live in a warm or cold climate? A thicker costume might do well on a cold, windy autumn night. But in a hot, arid climate, you should choose a costume made of lightweight material to keep your pup as cool as possible.

Safety

It’s important that your dog is safe in its costume. Inspect it after buying to make sure there are no potential choking hazards. If there are customer complaints that their dogs destroyed the costume quickly, you may not want to invest in it. Also, make sure there are practical features in the costume such as a way for you to secure a lead to your dog when walking outdoors.

The Best Small Dog Costumes: Summary

Ultimately, when it comes to choosing a costume for your pet the most important thing is to make sure that your pet is going to be comfortable and happy. This involves considering the material it is made from, the size and fit of the costume, and even how easily you can attach a leash over it. We hope that this review has given you some useful information and provided a range of choices for you to consider.

Up Next…

About the Author

Ashley Haugen is a lifelong animal lover and professional writer and editor. When she's not immersed in A-Z-Animals.com, she can be found hanging out with her dogs and birds.

Best Costumes for Small Dogs FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

How do I know what size costume to buy for my dog?

To find the correct costume size for your dog, you will need to reference the sizing chart from the manufacturer. Each manufacturer’s sizing is different, so even if you know what size costume your dog wore last year, you should take new measurements and consult the sizing chart to ensure a proper fit.

Are costumes safe for dogs?

Dressing a dog in a costume does come with some risks, but as long as you are closely supervising your dog while they are dressed up, they should be fine. Dogs are not accustomed to wearing any clothing, so they won’t be used to a bulkier costume. This could make it more likely for the costume to get caught on furniture or something outdoors, which could potentially trap a dog.

Dog costumes with small parts should also be avoided. Smaller pieces could be chewed off by a dog and cause them to choke. Swallowing pieces of a costume also won’t be good for a dog and could cause stomach issues.

Also, keep in mind that being forced to wear a costume may cause some dogs anxiety. While a fair number of dogs do seem to like getting dressed up, there are many others that do not. If your dog seems nervous around his or her costume, it would be in the best interest of their health not to make them get dressed up.

Will my dog like wearing a costume?

It is possible that your dog will enjoy being dressed up. Some dogs seem to like wearing clothing or costumes and may get excited when their owner pulls out something for them to wear.

On the other hand, some dogs do not like getting dressed up. Some may even get anxious or stressed if you try to get them to put on a costume. If you haven’t tried a costume with your dog before, you can still give a pirate costume a shot. But, if you notice your dog is nervous or scared, we wouldn’t recommend forcing them into the costume. This can exacerbate their anxiety and lead to other behavioral or health problems.

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