Halloween is filled with excitement, costumes, and plenty of sweet treats, but for our four-legged family members, the spooky season can quickly become dangerous. Between toxic candies, spooky decor, and constant doorbells, it’s easy for pets to feel overwhelmed or get into mischief.

Here are five simple reminders to keep your pup safe and happy this Halloween:

• Keep all treats out of snout’s reach: Chocolate—especially dark and baking chocolate—is toxic to dogs, as is the artificial sweetener xylitol (birch bark extract), commonly found in sugar-free candies and gums. Wrappers, foil, and lollipop sticks can also cause dangerous intestinal blockages. Keep the candy bowl high on a sturdy counter.

• Beware of glowing and spooky decor: Glow sticks, fake cobwebs, and lit pumpkins pose major hazards. Chewing on glow sticks can cause irritation and excessive drooling, while fake spiderwebs are an easy choking hazard. Swap real candles inside jack-o'-lanterns for battery-operated LED tea lights to avoid burned paws or tipped-over flames.

• Make sure ID tags and microchips are updated: With trick-or-treaters constantly ringing the bell, the front door opens dozens of times throughout the night. It only takes one spooked pup a split second to bolt outside. Ensure your dog is wearing a collar with up-to-date contact information.

• Create a calm, safe sanctuary: The constant stream of masked strangers shouting "Trick or treat!" can trigger severe anxiety or territorial barking. Set up a cozy retreat in an interior room with their favorite bed, a white noise machine or soothing music, and a durable chew toy or frozen peanut butter Kong.

• Costumes: cute, but only if comfortable: If you dress up your dog, make sure the outfit doesn't restrict breathing, movement, sight, or hearing. Watch out for small dangling pieces they could chew off and swallow. If your dog freezes, tucks their tail, or looks miserable, ditch the costume and stick to a festive Halloween bandana instead.

A little extra prep ensures the holiday stays fun for everyone—two-legged and four-legged alike!