Halloween has officially gone to the dogs. And apparently, it's not cheap.
Americans are expected to spend a whopping $920 million on Halloween costumes for their pets this year, according to the National Retail Federation's 2026 Halloween survey.
That's up from $860 million in 2025. And while the costume options keep getting more creative, one familiar favorite is still leading the pack.
And the winner is… a pumpkin. 🎃
HALLOWEEN 2026
America's Favorite Pet Costumes
The results are in. And one costume is miles ahead.
| 🎃 | 01. Pumpkin | 11.6% |
| 🌭 | 02. Hot Dog | 5.9% |
| 👻 | 03. Ghost | 2.8% |
Source: National Retail Federation, 2026 Halloween Consumer Survey.
Percentages reflect reported pet costume preferences.
Yes, the classic pumpkin has beaten the competition yet again. It also topped the rankings in 2025, when 9.8% of respondents chose it.
Meanwhile, costume shops are getting considerably more adventurous. The New York Post reports that New York shoppers are eyeing everything from Krypto the Superdog to Chucky-inspired outfits. Apparently, turning your adorable family dog into a tiny horror movie villain is now a perfectly reasonable Halloween plan.
A Billion-Dollar Costume Party
Pet costumes are just one part of America's Halloween spending spree. Overall spending on the holiday is projected to reach $13.5 billion in 2026, with 74% of consumers planning to celebrate.
But there's one guest whose opinion might be missing from the shopping survey: the dog wearing the outfit.
The American Animal Hospital Association recommends keeping costumes comfortable, allowing unrestricted movement, and watching for signs of stress. For dogs who aren't enthusiastic about dressing up, a festive bandana can be just as charming.
After all, the cutest costume is the one your dog actually feels good wearing. And if your pup is going as a pumpkin this year? Congratulations. They're officially a trendsetter.
Just don't be surprised if the dog next door shows up wearing the exact same thing.
