Halloween is a fun excuse to dress up your dachshund. But not every dachshund agrees. Many are unsure about anything that touches their back, and that is perfectly normal. The good news is that the method that works for costumes also works for winter coats, so a little patience now pays off all season.

1. Choose something that suits your dachshund

• Comfort: light, breathable fabric that does not restrict movement, breathing or vision. Avoid small parts that could be chewed off or swallowed.
• Fit: a dachshund is not a square dog, so choose something cut for a long back and short legs. Otherwise it will slip, twist or ride up.
• Personality: a costume should suit your dog's character. If he hates it, a bandana is a perfectly good costume.

2. Introduce it step by step

1. Let him sniff it. Lay the costume or coat on the floor and let your dachshund investigate in his own time. Give a treat for any curiosity.
2. Touch, then treat. Gently touch his back with the item, then immediately hide it behind your back and give a treat. Repeat many times, slowly increasing how long and how firmly it touches. Here is a video we found on YouTube that shows the method.
3. Put it on for a moment. Once he is relaxed with the touch, put it on for a few seconds, then take it off and reward him. Slowly extend the time over several days.
4. Add something fun. Play, feed treats or go for a short walk while he is wearing it, so he links it to good things.

3. Keep it positive

Short sessions, lots of treats and lots of praise. Stop before your dog gets stressed, not after. Signs to watch for: freezing, pulling away, licking his lips, flattened ears or refusing food. Never leave a dog alone in a costume, and take it off when the fun is over.

4. The same works for coats

Everything above applies to winter coats, and a coat that fits properly makes it much easier. Our coats are cut for dachshund proportions and close with adjustable Velcro, so they go on quickly and quietly. Not sure which size? Have a look at our size guide, or tell us your dachshund's type and weight via chat or email and we'll help you choose.

Why a coat matters in the first place is explained in our 7 reasons your dachshund needs a coat.