October means costumes, candy, and celebrations—and this year, your four-legged friend gets to join the party! From Houston to Austin, Dallas to San Antonio, Texas towns are rolling out the red carpet (or should we say, the orange and black carpet?) for dogs who want to strut their stuff in Halloween costumes.
Whether your pup prefers to parade through parks or compete for “Best Dressed,” we’ve rounded up the most tail-wagging Halloween events across the Lone Star State. Grab those doggie costumes and leashes—these events are happening NOW through the end of October!
Dallas/Fort Worth: Big City, Big Costumes
The Dog Stop Trunk or Treat
October 25, 3-7 PM | The Colony
A doggie daycare hosting a trunk or treat? Of course! The Dog Stop knows how to throw a dog party. Decorated car trunks offer treats (the dog-safe kind), and the whole event caters specifically to four-legged guests. This is where dogs take center stage, not just tag along.
What You Need to Know:
- Address: 5904 TX-121, The Colony, TX 75056
- Cost: Check with venue
- Best for: All dogs—this event’s designed for them!
- Pro Tip: Some treats offered may not suit all dogs; bring your own favorites just in case
PetSuites McKinney Trunk or Treat
October 25, 3-6 PM | McKinney
Another pet-focused business throwing a proper dog party. PetSuites sets up trunk-or-treat stations specifically for pets, with dog-safe treats and plenty of socialization opportunities. The staff knows how to handle dogs of all temperaments, making this a safe choice for first-time event attendees.
What You Need to Know:
- Address: 8700 State Highway 121, McKinney, TX 75070
- Cost: Check with venue for details
- Registration: May be required—call ahead
- Pro Tip: Visit their facility beforehand if your dog is nervous around new places
Houston Area: Where the Dogs Howl
Levy Park’s 8th Annual Howl-o-ween Dog Parade & Costume Contest
October 26, 2:30 PM | FREE
This is the big one, folks. Levy Park transforms into a canine runway where hundreds of costumed pups parade around the park. The eighth year running means they’ve perfected the formula: plenty of space, lots of photo ops, and judges who truly appreciate a well-dressed Dachshund in a hot dog bun costume.
The event kicks off with a parade that welcomes all dogs—no registration needed for the walk. Just show up with your leashed pup and join the fun. After the parade, stick around for the official costume contest where prizes go to the most creative, funniest, and best overall costumes.
What You Need to Know:
- Address: 3801 Eastside Street, Houston, TX 77098
- Bring: Leash, water bowl, waste bags, and your camera
- Pro Tip: Arrive by 2:00 PM to scope out good photo spots before the parade starts
Austin: Keep Your Dog Weird
Meanwhile Brewing Werewolf Contest & Dog Pawrty
October 31, 6 PM | Meanwhile Brewing
Halloween night at a brewery with your dog? Yes, please. This event packs in costume contests, tarot card readings for humans, DJ Kurt Lammers spinning tunes, and even dog adoptions on site. Shop the All About Dogs Market for locally made treats and toys while your pup socializes with other costumed canines.
The brewery’s spacious outdoor area gives dogs room to mingle, and the “werewolf” theme adds a fun twist to costume planning.
What You Need to Know:
- Address: 3901 Promontory Point Drive, Austin, TX 78744
- Dog-friendly areas: Outdoor patio and market areas
- Special feature: Adoptable dogs on site (prepare your heart)
- Pro Tip: Werewolf costumes win bonus points, but all costumes welcome
Making the Most of Dog Halloween Events
Before You Go
- Practice wearing the costume: Try it on at home first. If your dog seems distressed, skip the costume and just bring them for the fun
- Check vaccination requirements: Many events require proof of current rabies and DHPP vaccines
- Bring essentials: Water bowl, waste bags, treats, and a tired dog (a long walk beforehand helps)
- Know your dog’s limits: Crowds, noise, and excitement affect every dog differently
At the Event
- Watch for stress signals: Excessive panting, pinned ears, tucked tail, or pulling away mean it’s time for a break
- Give other dogs space: Not every costumed dog wants to make friends
- Secure your leash: Crowds and excitement can cause unexpected reactions
- Skip the people treats: Chocolate and candy are dangerous for dogs
Costume Tips
- Ensure visibility: Your dog needs to see clearly
- Allow movement: Costumes shouldn’t restrict walking, bathroom breaks, or panting
- Check for choking hazards: Remove any pieces your dog could chew off
- Keep it simple: Sometimes a festive bandana beats an elaborate costume
Why This Matters
These events do more than provide Instagram-worthy photos (though you’ll definitely get those). They create opportunities for dogs to socialize, help shy pups build confidence in new environments, and let your four-legged family member join in holiday traditions. Plus, many events support animal shelters and rescue organizations—your participation helps dogs in need.
Texas October weather usually cooperates with outdoor events, giving you the perfect excuse to get outside with your pup before winter arrives. And let’s be honest: watching hundreds of dogs parade past in costumes brings pure joy that transcends species.
So dig out that hot dog costume, practice your pup’s “sit-stay,” and mark these dates on your calendar. Your dog’s social calendar is about to get very busy.
Ready to Go? Start with events closest to you, check their websites for any registration requirements, and prepare your camera roll for serious cuteness overload. This is Texas—we do everything big, including Halloween for our dogs.
See you at the parade! 🎃🐕👻
