The Best Grinch Costumes for Dogs

Written by Hannah Ward
Updated: November 16, 2022
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The Grinch, a classic book and film, may be centered around Christmas time, but tells a tale relevant all year round. This is especially true for Halloween. The Grinch and his dog/trusty steed, Max, make the perfect costume for you and your own dog!

If you’d like your dog to dress up as the Grinch, Max (the Grinch’s dog), or another character from the story, you may be having a hard time deciding which costume to choose. So, we have done the research for you to narrow down the choices and list our top recommendations. Continue reading, and we think you’ll find a costume that offers just what you’re looking for.

  1. MJC Dr Seuss The Grinch Max Dog Costume

    •Max from The Grinch costume for dogs

    •Hoodie with reindeer antler

    •Fleece material

    •Fits S/M or L/XL (see size chart)

    Check Amazon
  2. ComfyCamper Dog Reindeer Antler Headband

    •Max's antler from The Grinch dog costume

    •S/M/L sizes available (check size chart)

    •Velcro adjusting

    Check Amazon
  3. Grinch for Pets Grinch Resting Grinch Face Dog T-Shirt

    •"Resting Grinch Face" t-shirt costume for dogs

    •Soft, breathable, jersey material

    •S-XL sizes (check size chart)


    Check Amazon
  4. PajamaGram Holiday Grinch Pajamas - for Humans and Dogs

    •Family coordinated PJ Grinch Costume (humans & dogs)

    •Shirt-like style

    •Jersey fabric

    Check Amazon

The Top Picks for the Best Grinch Dog Costume: Ranked for 2022

#1 Best Overall: MJC Dr. Seuss The Grinch Max Dog Costume

We chose the MJC Dr. Sejuss The Grinch Max costume as our best overall because with this adorable costume your pup will look just like Max from The Grinch.

This costume is easy to put on as it just goes over the dog’s back with holes for their front legs and snaps securely down their front side. Overall, the costume design is a hoodie with an antler — like the one the Grinch ties to Max — tied to the front of the hoodie, reindeer-style.

This officially licensed costume is designed to be soft and comfortable for dogs to wear. It is made from a warm Sherpa fleece fabric to keep dogs cozy. However, it may not be the best option for large, fluffy dogs that overheat quickly or for dogs that dislike full-body costumes.

Small/medium and large/extra-large sizes of this costume are available. Check out their size chart for more information. However, customers have reported that the sizes run small so sizing up might be needed.

Pros and Cons of the MJC Dr. Seuss The Grinch Max Dog Costume

ProsCons
This costume has a simple step-in design and fastens securing down the chest.The thick fleece material means that dogs can overheat easily.
It is made from soft Sherpa fleece material.The sizes run small.
There are several size options available to fit most dogs.It is not suitable for dogs that don’t like full-body costumes.
Best Overall
MJC Dr Seuss The Grinch Max Dog Costume

•Max from The Grinch costume for dogs

•Hoodie with reindeer antler

•Fleece material

•Fits S/M or L/XL (see size chart)

Check Amazon

2. Best Max’s Antler: ComfyCamper Dog Reindeer Antler Headband

For pets that don’t like wearing a full-body costume we have chosen the Comfy Camper Dog Reindeer Antler Headband so that they can still join in the fun.

A single, golden antler will look as if it’s tied to your dog’s head with the same red string the Grinch used to tie an antler to Max.

This headband is designed to fit well on your dog’s head. Small, medium and large sizes are available to fit dogs with a head circumference between eight and 23 inches. Each size is also designed to be adjustable using a Velcro strap to ensure a custom and secure fit. However, pup parents have reported that the size guide is not accurate and sizing up is advised.

A headband costume is perfect for dog’s who don’t like their body to be constrained by clothes and also for those who overheat easily.

Pros and Cons of the ComfyCamper Dog Reindeer Antler Headband

ProsCons
This headband is ideal for pets that don’t like wearing a full costume or that overheat easily.The size guide is not accurate and the sizes run small.
It secures underneath the chin with a Velcro strap for a secure fit.
It is available in several sizes to fit dogs with a head circumference of eight to 23 inches.
Best Max's Antler
ComfyCamper Dog Reindeer Antler Headband

•Max's antler from The Grinch dog costume

•S/M/L sizes available (check size chart)

•Velcro adjusting

Check Amazon

3. Best T-Shirt: Grinch for Pets Resting Grinch Face Dog T-Shirt

Our selection as the best T-shirt is the Grinch for Pets Resting Grinch Face Dog T-Shirt.

This t-shirt is the perfect costume for dog’s encompassing the Grinch’s grouchiness. The t-shirt costume is brown and features the Grinch’s green face and the classic quote: “Resting Grinch Face.” Your pet is sure to steal the show while wearing this costume.

The shirt goes over your dog’s head and front legs, securing around the waist with a secure elastic band. Lightweight, soft fabric makes the costume pleasant to wear and not unbearable in warmer climates.

Coming in small, medium, large, and extra-large sizes, this t-shirt is perfect for dogs of all breeds and sizes. The shirt is also affordable and perfect for those looking for a casual but effective costume for their pup this Halloween.

Although this costume undoubtedly has a lot going for it, owners have reported that there is no hole to allow for access to a leash or harness, meaning that they have to be put on over the top of the costume instead.

Pros and Cons of the Grinch for Pets Resting Grinch Face Dog T-Shirt

ProsCons
This costume simply slides over the dog’s head and front legs.There is no hole to access a leash or harness loop. This means that they need to be put on over the top of the costume.
It secures around the waist with elastic.
It is made from lightweight and breathable material which is comfortable to wear and prevents overheating.
Best T-Shirt
Grinch for Pets Grinch Resting Grinch Face Dog T-Shirt

•"Resting Grinch Face" t-shirt costume for dogs

•Soft, breathable, jersey material

•S-XL sizes (check size chart)


Check Amazon

4. Best for Family: PajamaGram Holiday Grinch Pajamas

Our top choice for family costume is the PajamaGram Holiday Grinch Pajama Set because it includes all members of the family — including your pup!

The pajamas can double as a Christmas morning outfit or costume for your pet to show your love of The Grinch for Halloween. The pajama shirt is grey with variations of the Grinch on the front and green sleeves. The bottoms are green like the Grinch, and include images of characters and scenes from the film/book. The dog outfit includes a shirt-like design in the print of the pants, fitting over the head and on the front legs.

The jersey fabric of the pajamas is designed to be lightweight and comfortable for dogs (and humans). The material selected is conveniently machine washable. It is also color-safe to keep the costume looking great for many wears and fun family photo ops! The best feature is the keyhole for attaching a leash your pet’s harness or collar while underneath the costume.

X-small, small, medium, large, X-large, and XX-large sizes are available for this cute pair of pajamas. The X-small size should fit most dogs with a chest girth between 11 and 13 inches and a back length between 9 and 10 inches. The XX-large size is designed for larger dogs with a chest girth between 35 and 39 inches and a back length between 26 and 28 inches. If your pup’s measurements fall between these two sizes, consult the sizing guide from the manufacturer. However, some owner have reported that the sizes can run large.

Pros and Cons of the PajamaGram Holiday Grinch Pajamas

ProsCons
This costume simply pulls on over the dog’s head and front legs.The sizes run large.
There is a keyhole for leash attachments.
It is made from soft, lightweight and breathable material.
Best for Family
PajamaGram Holiday Grinch Pajamas - for Humans and Dogs

•Family coordinated PJ Grinch Costume (humans & dogs)

•Shirt-like style

•Jersey fabric

Check Amazon

Our Criteria: How We Chose the Best

As animal lovers and dog owners, our team strives to find the best for your pets (and our own!). When researching products, such as costumes, for your dogs, we always have our own in mind. This helps us narrow down our searches not only by appearance of products, but by practicality, comfort, inclusiveness, and originality.

Unfortunately, not all costumes are created equal. We, however, are determined to find the best ones out there to help ease the hassle for you. One factor that we cannot take into mind for you is your dog’s personality. You know your dog best — their quirks, individuality, and their needs. You know what makes their tail wag in circles and what they absolutely hate. So, when you’re going through this article in search of the perfect costume for your pet, keep them in mind specifically. For example, does your dog love to chew up any and everything he can get his snoot on? Maybe don’t spring for the costume with all of the bells and whistles and stick to a simple bandana or back-covering costume. Another problem many dogs have is they get anxious when wearing full-body clothing. If this is the case, also opt for a minimal costume.

The only way I can best relate is through my own experience. I am the lucky owner of a young, rambunctious rough collie. We have a lot of fun together and I love to take him anywhere I can with me, including Halloween parties! However, finding the right costume can be a doozy. I can only put him in something like a bandana or one that covers his back but not legs, as he will chew anything in his range of mouth, which is pretty much everything. On some occasions he doesn’t mind a headband piece. I also never choose anything thick or plush, as he overheats in five minutes.

Ultimately, the decision of which costume is best for your dog is up to you because your dog can’t choose for themselves. It is important to not let the aesthetic or the idea of the costume overshadow the importance of your dog’s specific needs. Keeping your dog happy and healthy is the number one priority.

What to Look For in a Grinch Costume

We know it can be difficult to choose a costume for your dog. You want to make the best choice, which can feel like a huge task. The buying guide below is designed by us to help you focus on the most important features and narrow your search to select the ideal costume for your pup.

Character

First, think about which character from the Grinch you would like to dress your dog up as. The most popular Grinch costumes you’ll find are for the Grinch himself and Max, the Grinch’s dog. However, you may also be able to find costumes for some of the other characters from the book or movie.

Size and Fit

Don’t waste your time closely looking at a costume only to discover that it doesn’t come in a size that will fit your pooch. One of the first things you should do as you’re looking for a costume is to check the sizing chart. You will need to record measurements for your dog’s chest and neck circumference, weight, and length to compare against the measurements from the chart.

Personality

As mentioned earlier, you know your dog better than anyone. So, it is up to you to choose a costume that fits their personality best. Cater to their needs to the best of your ability — avoid costumes that will make them uncomfortable mentally or physically. Definitely don’t choose a full-body, elaborate costume if your dog loves to chew as it won’t last very long. If your dog has anxiety around wearing clothes, don’t make them! Opt for a bandana or headpiece so they won’t feel confined or agitated.

Comfort

Soft and breathable materials will help ensure that your dog will be comfortable in their costume. Costumes that are too rough can rub against a dog’s skin and cause irritation. Materials that are not breathable can prevent dogs from properly regulating their temperatures and make them overheat. If your dog has skin sensitivities or allergies and is prone to skin irritation, opt for a costume that is 100% cotton or for a minimal costume such as a bandana.

Price

Last, take a look at the price tag for each of the Grinch costumes you’re considering. Price definitely shouldn’t be the only factor you consider, as you want to pick a quality costume for your dog, but it can play a role in making a decision. You don’t want to go over the amount you have budgeted for your dog’s costume.

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About the Author

Hannah is a writer at A-Z animals where her primary focus is on reptiles, marine life, mammals, and geography. Hannah has been writing and researching animals for four years alongside running her family farm. A resident of the UK, Hannah loves riding horses and creating short stories.

The Best Grinch Costumes for Dogs FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

Which character from the Grinch should I dress my dog up as for Halloween?

Max, who was the Grinch’s dog that the Grinch dressed up to look like a reindeer, is a popular Grinch character for dog costumes. Dressing your dog up as Max could be the perfect complement to another family member’s Grinch costume. However, you may also decide that you want your dog to dress up as the Grinch himself or one of the other characters from the book and movie. While options for other costumes are more limited, there are still a few choices available.

Do dogs get too hot in a costume?

It is possible for a dog to get too hot when they’re wearing a costume. Dogs are not used to wearing anything over their bodies and already have a warm fur coat. Wearing a heavy costume can prevent their body from being able to regulate its temperature. If you live in a warmer area, you should be especially cognizant of this and choose costumes that are lightweight and breathable.

Do costumes cause dogs stress?

Some dogs may experience stress from wearing a costume. They might be afraid of the way the costume looks or just against wearing anything over their body. Forcing a dog to wear a costume just because you want them to could lead to an increase in anxiety and is not recommended.

However, not all dogs are stressed out by costumes. Some seem to really enjoy getting to dress up. If your dog doesn’t seem scared of a costume and acts normal while wearing one, it likely isn’t causing them stress.

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.

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