Last-minute DIY dog Halloween costumes

Halloween's creeping up on us faster than your pooch under the dining table and we at Topdog understand the panic of not having a paw-fect costume ready. But don't fret, because we're not just about making sure your pup is stylish and secure with our dog harnesses, leads and collars. We've sniffed out some tail-waggingly good last-minute DIY dog Halloween costumes that'll have your doggo turning heads and wagging tails. Let's dive into the fun, and make this Halloween a howling success!

Dog Halloween costumes: what’s the fuss?

In recent years, we've witnessed a surge in celebrations focused on our furry companions, with birthday parties for dogs becoming an endearing staple in countless households — even in place of gender reveals and baby showers. This emerging trend, which includes dog Halloween costumes, underlines the deep bond and cherished connection we cultivate with our four-legged family members.

As Halloween costumes for dogs become increasingly popular (6.9k searches per month), it's evident that dog Halloween outfits, be they large dog Halloween costumes or small dog Halloween costumes, are more than just playful accessories. They're an integrated part of our festive traditions, making our pets feel even more included in family celebrations. 

Much like how we've enthusiastically adopted doggie birthday hats, Halloween dress-ups for dogs offer a chance to amplify our affection. From coordinating dog and owner Halloween costumes to those seeking a last-minute DIY dog costume, embracing this trend serves as a delightful testament to the ever-growing bond between humans and their canine pals. 

Without much further ado, let’s take a look at some fantastic DIY dog Halloween ideas to whip up last minute!

Last-minute DIY dog costumes

Picture this. It’s the weekend before Halloween and you’ve decided to dress up your dog in the spookiest outfit — you might even want to try a dog and owner-coordinating Halloween costume! But, time is against you. It’s too late to buy online and there aren’t many local shops which sell pet Halloween costumes. You want  so what can you do?

It’s time to dive into DIY. Here are some truly original ideas to deck out your dog for a memorable Halloween. 

• Barking Bookworm

If only dogs could read, hey? This one’s sure to get a few laughs. An easy DIY project, all you need is three items and maybe some coloured paper or pens to jazz up the book cover.

Materials: Old cloth, cardboard, glasses (frames only).

Instructions: Create a cardboard book cover and attach it to the cloth, so your dog appears to be sandwiched between the book pages. Place glasses on their head or around their neck.

• Canine Cactus

What’s more original than dressing up dogs as the most far-removed object you can think of… how about a cactus? This is ace as a small dog Halloween costume, especially if your dog is a little rotund naturally. Cute!

Materials: Green dog shirt or fabric, white yarn or felt.

Instructions: Glue or sew small pieces of white yarn or felt onto the green shirt to represent thorns.

• Doggy Donut

Let's face it. If dogs were allowed to eat doughnuts as often as possible, they definitely would. Plus, they make a super sweet (in more than two ways) and easy last-minute DIY dog costume. 

Materials: Foam or padded material, brown fabric, fabric glue, coloured felt.

Instructions: Cut foam or padded material in the shape of a doughnut, cover with brown fabric as the doughnut base, and decorate with felt "sprinkles".

• Pup-corn Box

Is a horror film night with friends on the Halloween agenda? Make sure you reach for the popcorn and not the pup-corn with this one.

Materials: Cardboard, white and red paint, crumpled white paper or cushion stuffing.

Instructions: Create a box shape around the dog's torso with cardboard painted in red and white stripes. Fill the top with crumpled white paper or cushion stuffing as popcorn.

• Hairy Potter

Your pooch is the chosen one after all, so why not dress it up like a certain infamous wizard? This is a good last-minute large dog Halloween costume to quickly create. 

Materials: Black cloth, glasses (frames only), yellow felt.

Instructions: Drape the cloth as a cape, place glasses on their face, and create a yellow felt tie. Optional: Draw a lightning bolt on their forehead with a safe, washable marker.

• Pooch Picasso

A touch of culture and class without breaking the bank, say hello to Pooch Picasso — most well-known for a performance art piece called “The Endless Tail Chase” — it’s quite something, really!

Materials: Beret, white cloth, paint palette or cardboard, paint (non-toxic).

Instructions: Drape the white cloth like an artist's smock. Place the beret on their head and give them a cardboard palette. You can dab some non-toxic paint on the palette for added effect.

• Chef Barker

Can I get a doggy bag?

Materials: White cloth, chef's hat, wooden spoon.

Instructions: Create a chef's coat with the white cloth and pair it with a chef's hat. Have them carry a wooden spoon or attach it to their back.

• Bark-tender

What’s a dog’s favourite cocktail? A barka-rita of course. Halloween dress-up for dogs will make your pooch a real party animal, especially when they’re on hand to serve your other guests. 

Materials: Small apron, mini bottles or plastic tubes, cardboard.

Instructions: Attach the mini bottles to the apron, and fashion a small serving tray from cardboard.

• Dog-tor (Doctor Dog)

Another rad choice for large dog Halloween costumes is the Dog-tor, on hand for snuggle treatment at any given opportunity! 

Materials: White shirt, stethoscope or toy stethoscope.

Instructions: Dress them in the white shirt and drape the stethoscope around their neck.

• Bark Side of the Moon (Astronaut)

My dog's favourite constellation? Canis Major, of course! Whether they're chasing tails or shooting stars, dogs know how to light up our universe so why not try a space-themed dog Halloween outfit? 

Materials: Silver or white fabric, small American flag patch, helmet or headgear.

Instructions: Design a space suit using silver or white fabric and attach the flag patch. Optional: Craft a helmet or headgear from clear plastic.

• Beetlejuice Sandworm Pup

Transform your dog into the iconic Sandworm from Beetlejuice with this fun and easy DIY costume. Perfect for Halloween, it’s both comfy and a conversation starter!

Materials: Black and white fabric or felt, red collar, old harness, fabric glue or velcro, scissors.

Instructions: Create a striped fabric by glueing strips of black and white felt together. Secure horizontally to an old harness using fabric glue or velcro to mimic the Sandworm’s body. Use a red collar to represent the inner mouth and optionally, add white felt triangles for teeth.

• Dogpool

This DIY Dogpool costume is sure to make your pet the star of the Halloween scene. Simple and stylish, this idea will have your dog channelling their inner anti-hero!

Materials: Pet-safe fabric paint or marker, red top and socks, Deadpool keyring.

Instructions: Find or purchase a cheap red child’s top similar to the size of your pet - prioritise the width and make sure the neck hole can safely go over your pet’s head. The length can be cut to size. Use a pet-safe black marker or fabric paint to resemble Dogpool’s costume details.

If your pet is comfortable wearing socks, repeat the process on a red pair of dog/child socks. Purchase a Deadpool keyring, with most available under £5, and attach it to your dog’s collar for a final touch.

Halloween dress up for dogs: stay safe!

Remember, when making costumes for pets, always prioritise their comfort and safety. Avoid any small pieces that they could potentially swallow, and ensure the costume doesn't restrict their movement, vision, or breathing. It's a good idea to let your dog get used to the costume slowly, offering plenty of treats and positive reinforcement.