@cleolonglegs’ Halloween Traditions Will Inspire Your Next Dog Costume

“Halloween is a big deal in our house,” says Balistreri. “It’s our favorite holiday! We usually host a party, go all out with decorations, and the dogs love it—because it’s the one night a year when all their favorite people are in one place.” 

This year may look a little different. The crew recently moved across the country, which may upend typical traditions like their annual Halloween party. But that hasn’t dampened Balistreri’s enthusiasm. 

“We’re still dressing up—and we’re maybe doing an ‘Alice in Wonderland’-themed party later this fall,” she says. 

Balistreri keeps a running list of costume ideas all year, drawing inspiration from favorite shows and nostalgic childhood movies. 

“Sometimes we all dress up together; sometimes it’s just the dogs,” she says. “And now that we have three, I’m excited to do popular trios!” 

Last year’s group costume? “Despicable Me,” with Cleo as Gru, Marcy as a Minion, and Abby as a banana. 

Another standout was a “Where’s Waldo?” photo shoot where Cleo dressed as Waldo—and hid herself in a custom-made “Where’s Cleo?” image. 

This year, top contenders include a trio take on the Sanderson Sisters from “Hocus Pocus.” “We’ve gotten a lot of requests for it, and now that we have three noodle dogs, it might be time,” Balistreri says. 

The costumes are the main attraction—but ultimately, Balistreri says, her dogs’ comfort trumps all. Over the years, she’s learned their individual preferences. 

“Cleo loves turtleneck sweaters but isn’t a fan of hats,” she says. “Abby hates chest harnesses but doesn’t mind a hat. And Marcy? She’s just happy to be involved.” 

For longer events like trick-or-treating, Balistreri keeps it simple: “Cleo might wear a fun patterned sweater, Abby gets a festive collar or hat, and Marcy usually just comes along to enjoy the fun.” 

When it comes to elaborate costumes for photos, Balistreri sometimes Photoshops in elements her dogs wouldn’t tolerate wearing—like wigs or wings. “That way they’re comfy and still part of the theme,” she says. 

Halloween day is a mix of last-minute decorating, candy shopping, and prepping the dogs.  

“It’s always a scramble, but it’s part of the fun,” Balistreri says.  

And her dogs know when the doorbell starts ringing, it means visitors. 

“They love the kids in the neighborhood,” Balistreri says. “Each doorbell ring is another chance to be adored.” 

As for Halloween treats, Balistreri comes prepared.  

“I always bring a mix: some single-ingredient goodies and the good stinky stuff,” she says. “Vital Essentials and Spot Farms are my go-tos, and both are on Chewy, which makes it easy.” 

For Balistreri, Halloween isn’t just about dress-up—it’s a way to celebrate the bond they have with each of their dogs. 

“We each have our own connection,” she explains. “Abby has the deepest bond with my partner—they’ve been together the longest. Cleo is my shadow, and with Marcy, we’re still learning from each other.” 

Halloween is just one more way to reinforce those bonds—with attention, affection, and some over-the-top photo shoots. 

“It’s joyful. It’s silly,” Balistreri says. “And it’s something we all genuinely love.” 

Shop @cleolonglegs’ favorite dog goodies.