Halloween Dog Costumes for Your Tzu

Unique Ideas for Dog Costumes for Your Shih Tzu   by Janice Jones     |Last Updated 07-22-2021

There is a brisk chill in the air and the days are getting shorter.  Pumpkins are ripening on the vine and leaves are beginning to change colors. 

Autumn is definitely around the corner and in the United States, that means Halloween must be approaching.

Do you dress your Tzu up for the festivities? 

Some do, especially those that have young children wanting to go Trick or Treating.  What better bonding experience with your dog than to allow him to accompany you. 

Some love the holiday so much that the thought of not buying or making a few dog costumes is inconceivable.  

Did you know?

In 2019, Americans spent $490 million

for costumes for their pets.

So, if you are just thinking about a new costume for your Shih Tzu this year, you're not alone.

Autumn in the U.S. means that Halloween is right around the corner. Choose a great dog costume for your pup.If it is Autumn, it's time to start thinking about Dog Costumes for Halloween.

Whether you're hosting a party, attending one, going to a dog show, or just relaxing at home, Halloween Night can be magical.  AND, the the holiday is not nearly as stressful to dogs as say those that are celebrated with fireworks.

Not everyone celebrates Halloween, especially  outside of the United States.  Even within the U.S., there has been much debate as to the merits of such frivolity. But we're not here to debate the merits of the holiday, but to look at what's available in pet costumes.

Regardless of where you stand on the subject, everyone from time to time enjoys a little dress-up.  The Shih Tzu breed is so easy to dress, whether it is a little dress or tee in the summer or a sweater or rain coat in the winter to protect them from the elements, we do tend to treat our Tzu a little more like children than we'd care to admit.

AND, how many of us are guilt of expressing our support to a favorite sports' team by adorning our Shih Tzu with a sport's jersey.

Measuring Your Dog for the Perfect Fit

Measure the chest right behind the front legs before you purchase a dog costume.Measure the chest right behind the front legs
Measure the neck of your Shih Tzu before you purchase a dog costume.Measure the neck of your Shih Tzu
Measure the length of the dog's back from the neck to the top of the tail.Measure the length of the dog's back from the neck to the top of the tail.

Most dog costumes are sold by size based on the chest and neck size and body length.  All Shih Tzu dogs are built a little different. 

The breed standard calls for dogs that are 9 to 16 pounds, but within that range, there is much variation from dogs that are almost square to those whose backs are long making them appear more rectangular. 

Use a tape measure if you have one to measure the chest, just behind the front legs.  Measure the size of the neck.

Generally, the body length is from the nape of their neck to the base of their tail.  If you do not own a tape measure, use a piece of string or other flexible material.  Measure and mark.  Hold the string next to a yard stick, ruler, or other measuring device.

Compare your measurements to those found on the product information page.  All manufactures are different, so your dog may fit into an XS  from one company, but a Small or even a Medium from a different one.

Shih Tzu dressed as a witch

Purchasing a Ready Made Costumes

Shih Tzu dressed in Western attire
Shih Tzu dressed as a bumblebee

Choose a costume you think would look great on your dog.  If you expect that your dog will wear the same costume year after year, purchase one that is durable and capable of being laundered.

Dog costumes are just as diverse as those purchased for children.  Typical categories you might see include:

  • Other types of animals (birds, insects, dinosaurs, fish and sharks, other mammals, and even mythical creatures)
  • Costumes based on popular movie and television characters
  • Costumes that reflect traditional Halloween themes such as pumpkins, skeletons, spiders, and monsters
  • Costumes that resemble those made for humans such as pirates, nurses uniforms and police officer
  • Finally you'll find costumes that resemble food (hot dogs, sushi, coffee, and bacon)
Shih Tzu dressed as a witch

Animal, Fish, and Insect Costumes

You can click on any picture below to be taken to the sales page on Amazon.  

Dog Costumes Made to Resemble Food Items

If you happen to be hungry when you're shopping, don't be surprised if you choose a hot dog or sushi costume!

Movie and Comic Book Characters

One of these costumes would be perfect for those dogs who love to watch television.

Traditional Halloween Themes

What is Halloween without a pumpkin, spider,or skeleton?

For the Gals

Is your Shih Tzu one of those girly girls?

For the Guys

For that perfect four-legged gentlemen



How is Your Shih Tzu Going to Dress for Halloween?

I hope you found this article helpful, but now it is your turn.  What costume are you planning for your own dog(s).  Please share you ideas and read what others have written.  Don't forget to snap a couple of pictures and add them to your story.  Feel free to add as much as you want: 

How did you chose your costume? (Or make it)

How did your dog react to being dressed?

What are your plans for Halloween?