Let’s Get Louisiana Pets Dressed in Outfits That Sport Local Flavor
(Lafayette, LA) - Pets are part of our families, and with Halloween around the corner, you will likely be on the lookout for some new ideas for your pet's costume. If you are going to put together a costume for your pet to patrol the streets of your Lafayette neighborhood, why not make it representative of our Cajun and Louisiana culture?
Now, animal experts will tell you that some pets love costumes, and some can't stand them because they aren't used to them. Popular Science says it can be confusing. They point out that breeds like Shih Tzus, who are used to constant grooming, might be perfectly fine while wearing a costume.
You need to really know your pet and watch for cues to make sure they are feeling okay. When you know they have had enough, be sure to take them home. According to Amy Pike, a veterinarian at Animal Behavior Wellness Center in Virginia, one of her older pets loved prancing around in a costume, while another dog just won't do it. She says not to pressure your pet and to let them decide. Also, always think about your pet's safety.
If your pets are like mine, they will wear all the costumes, and the only problem... they don't want to take them off! They literally get mad when I take their costumes or sweaters off. It has to be because of all of the treats and pets they get from people while they are wearing them.
If you own a dog, chances are you'll spend some money on them this Halloween to make sure they have a great costume. Some owners enjoy incorporating their pets into family-themed Halloween costume ideas.
Why Pet Owners Love Halloween Costumes
Combining survey findings with Google Trends data, MetLife reports that 53% of people plan to dress their dogs up for Halloween. People clearly want their dogs and other pets dressed up for Halloween. Pets are family.
Top 3 Searched Dog Costumes 2026
Searches for cow costumes for dogs are popular this year, along with the always-favorite hot dog costume for your dog. According to the National Retail Federation, the top three costumes searched for in 2026 are, in third place, ghost; in second place, hot dog; and in first place, pumpkin.
READ MORE: SURPRISING EXOTIC PETS YOU CAN LEGALLY OWN IN LOUISIANA
How Much We Spend on Halloween Costumes for Pets
As pet owners, we spend a good amount of money on Halloween items for our pets, including food, treats, and costumes. One in five pet owners spends over $50 on a Halloween costume for their furry friends.
The National Retail Federation estimates that we will spend $13.5 billion combined on all of Halloween, including decorations, pumpkins, parties, costumes, pet costumes, and candy.
According to the NRF, when it comes to our pets,
Pets continue to join in on Halloween celebrations, with consumers planning on spending $0.86 billion on costumes for their furry friends.
You can find some great Louisiana-themed costumes. Now, the costumes might not have Louisiana names, but you can use them for fun Halloween ideas.
The Rougarou Is a Great Pet Costume for Halloween
Now, if you look online for a Rougarou pet costume, you'll likely either not find one or find one that costs a lot. This lion's mane would be hilarious on your dog, and you can tell everyone he is the much-feared Rougarou!
The Crab Is a Cute Pet Costume for Pets for Halloween Night
If you want a cute idea that fits our love of Louisiana cuisine, dress your dog in a crab costume. Now, your dog won't look like the crabs from the Sherburne Wildlife Management Area, but he'll be adorable!
The Crawfish Is a Fun Costume Idea for Multiple Dogs This Halloween
Okay, so this is a picture of a lobster dog costume, but let's face it, a lobster is just a giant crawfish anyway! Hey, everyone in the family could get a lobster/crawfish costume for Halloween, so you can pretend to be a crawfish boil.
The Potato Is a Great Idea for Acadiana Pets for Halloween
Now, if you're planning a crawfish boil, you'll need some potatoes. This is a great idea if you have several dogs. Either way, adding a potato as a Halloween costume is adorable. It's also funny that the dog shirt says, "Because it's a potato, that's why."
The Gator Is Such a Cute Acadiana Halloween Idea for a Pet Costume
Your little chomper, or big chomper, will get plenty of belly rubs if you have him decked out in an alligator dog suit. He can chomp his way through the neighborhood; just watch out- he doesn't chomp his way through any candy bowls.
Tips for Budget-Friendly Halloween Shopping
One out of every five pet owners will pay more than $50 for their dog's costume, but if you are looking for some deals, the National Retail Federation has some advice. Prosper Insights and Analytics Executive Vice President of Strategy Phil Rist says,
For consumers looking to balance their budgets, strategies such as buying early to spread out purchases or shopping at discount stores are just some ways they are being mindful of costs. Despite these budget considerations, consumers are committed to prioritizing Halloween celebrations to create special memories with their loved ones.
LOOK: How Halloween has changed in the past 100 years
Gallery Credit: Brit McGinnis
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