Barktoberfest: Safety Tips for Durham’s Favorite Pet-Friendly Event

Durham’s most beloved fall festival for pets and their people is back! Barktoberfest in Durham is set for Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 3:30–6:30 PM, and it’s guaranteed to be three hours of pure joy for dog lovers. Held in the heart of our vibrant community, this free event celebrates all things canine with a costume contest, games, local vendors, a beer garden, and plenty of opportunities for dogs to show off their personalities. Here are some safety tips for Durham’s favorite pet-friendly event!

Barktoberfest Safety Tips

Barktoberfest isn’t just fun, it’s a great way to connect with fellow pet parents. It’s also a fun way to explore local vendors and enjoy seasonal treats. You’ll see everything from whimsical Halloween characters to clever pop culture references in the costume contest, and the beer garden adds a perfect autumnal touch for the humans.

While excitement is sure to run high, it’s important to remember that large events can be stressful for many pets. Ensuring your dog is safe, comfortable, and happy during the festivities will make the experience better for everyone. Here are some safety tips for Durham’s favorite pet-friendly event.

Use a Leash and Harness Combo

With so many people, dogs, and distractions in one place, a sturdy leash-harness combo can help you maintain control and keep your pet safe. Harnesses reduce strain on a dog’s neck and make it harder for them to slip away. This is especially important in crowds where sudden movements or loud sounds can spook even the calmest dog.

Avoid retractable leashes at busy events, they give less immediate control and can cause tangles. And, while collars are great for displaying ID tags, they are not ideal for leash walks and crowds because dogs can easily pull out of them.

Ensure IDs and Microchips Are Current

Speaking of collars, before heading to the festival, check that your dog’s ID tags are securely fastened to their collar and list an up-to-date phone number. If your dog is microchipped, verify that the manufacturer’s registry has your latest contact information.

In the unlikely event your dog gets separated from you, these small steps will significantly improve your chances of being reunited quickly.

Choose Costumes Carefully or Skip Costumes Altogether

Barktoberfest’s costume contest is a highlight, but not all costumes are comfortable or safe for dogs. Select outfits that are lightweight, breathable, and fitted to your dog’s size without restricting movement or covering the eyes. Avoid materials that can overheat your dog, especially if the weather is warm that afternoon. Or, take your dog without a costume. There’s no need to make your bestie uncomfortable – not even for the photo ops!

Always try the costume on at home before the event. Let your dog wear the outfit, go for a walk in it, and relax in it while supervised. That way, they have time to adjust, allowing you to recognize any signs of discomfort or irritation long before the event.

Watch for Signs of Fatigue or Stress at the Event

With the excitement of games, music, and strangers (in costume!) surrounding them, dogs can tire faster than expected. Monitor your pet for signs of stress, such as panting, yawning, lip licking, or trying to hide. If your dog seems overwhelmed or unusually timid, it’s best to remove all costumes, take a break in a quiet space, or call it a day.

It’s better to call it too early than to wait too long because ending on a positive note helps ensure future events are enjoyable too!

Skip Barktoberfest Entirely

No, I’m not hating on Barktoberfest! I think it’s excellent for Durham families to participate in the Barktoberfest tradition.

Unfortunately, however, if your dog has never experienced a large, dog-friendly gathering or tends to be nervous in crowds, Barktoberfest may not be the best introduction. Loud sounds, close quarters with unfamiliar dogs (Did I mention they are in costume?!), and the constant activity can be overwhelming. If your dog isn’t used to busy crowds and chaos, consider attending solo. This way, you can enjoy the vendors and beer garden yourself while keeping your dog safe and comfortable at home.

In fact, count on us to take your dog on a fun walk around your neighborhood on Saturday, October 25th, for their own not-so-spooky promenade. Our dog walkers and pet sitters are happy to accompany your dog as they check out the Halloween decor, smell the fall scents, do their business, and enjoy the changing season without the potentially frightening elements of a pet-friendly Halloween event like Barktoberfest. Schedule here.

Barktoberfest: Safety Tips for Durham’s Favorite Pet-Friendly Event

Barktoberfest is a celebration of Durham’s dog-loving spirit, and with a bit of preparation, it can be a delightful afternoon for both you and your furry best friend. Whether your pup is competing in the costume contest or simply enjoying the smells and sights, keeping safety and comfort in mind ensures that Barktoberfest remains a happy memory for years to come.

And remember to drink responsibly and transport your dog safely with a car harness, dog seat, or crate.