PORTLAND -- Even dogs are looking to get in on Halloween fun this year, but be warned, your pet may be even more startled by ghouls and goblins roaming the neighborhood than your kids.

Behavioral therapists claim Halloween is the most dangerous holiday of the year for dogs.

“We hear about more dogs dying or straying during Halloween than any other holiday,” dog behavioral therapist Lisa Holzer said. “Halloween is intended to scare and startle us -- making it a haunting holiday for dogs, too. By being more sensitive to dogs’ fear-driven ‘fight or flight’ instincts, we can help keep our furry friends safe this Halloween.”

Dog trainers are offering a few tips to keep your pooch safe and sound this Oct. 31.

Don’t leave your dog outside.

Even dog owners with fenced-in yards should bring their pets into a safe and controlled environment. Pets that live outside as opposed to indoors should be trained a few days in advance to spend a little time in the house on Halloween. A dog’s natural instinct is to protect it’s family, therapists say, and Halloween night provides plenty of strangers roaming the neighborhood.

Keep your dog restrained.

If your dog is shy, easily frightened or loves people a little too much, separate him in a room far from the front door. This way he has little opportunity to get excited by trick-or-treaters and less chance to bolt out the door.

Reassure your dog.

If your dog is a bit unsettled by all the excitement of Halloween night, the best thing to do is act normally with him. Giving your pet an unusual amount of attention may give him something to worry about.

If possible, have your dog get used to costumes.

Your pet may see trusted family members as dangerous strangers once they don a Halloween costume. Let the dog sniff the costume before kids or adults put it on. Keep masks off when interacting with pets, since they become confused when they can’t see faces.

Check your dog’s ID tag.

Keep candy away from your dog.

Candies, especially chocolate, can be toxic to dogs. Problems may range from an upset stomach to vomiting, diarrhea or even death.

Protect dogs from candles and pumpkins.

Keep pumpkins and candles out of your dog’s reach. Consider using battery-powered candles.

Think twice about dressing your dog in a costume.  

Most dogs do not enjoy getting dressed up. If your pet shows any resistance at all to a costume, avoid the temptation. Dogs feel enough stress on Halloween, experts say, without dressing them up.