Halloween, Pet Superstitions, Myths, and What’s Really True

Halloween has always carried a spooky reputation — black cats, broken mirrors, and all kinds of “bad luck” tales. But when it comes to our pets, a lot of old superstitions and grooming myths still get passed around. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common ones and separate fact from fiction, with a little humor along the way.

Myth #1: Black Cats Bring Bad Luck 🐈‍⬛

This is probably the most famous superstition. In western cultures, black cats were thought to be witches’ companions or omens of bad luck. In other places, like Scotland, Japan, and parts of England, a black cat crossing your path is actually a sign of good fortune or prosperity.

The truth: Black cats & dogs are just as loving, playful, and magical as any other cat. Sadly, they’re often overlooked in shelters because of this old myth. Adopting a black pet doesn’t bring bad luck — it brings unconditional love.

Myth #2: Dogs Howling Means Trouble 🐺

For centuries, people believed that a dog howling was a warning of death or danger.

The truth: Dogs howl for lots of reasons — communication, attention, response to sirens, or sometimes just because it feels good. If your dog suddenly starts howling more than usual, it could be a sign of anxiety, pain, or hearing changes. In that case, it’s worth checking with your vet — not worrying about ghosts.

Myth #3: Don’t Cut Whiskers ✂️

Most people know not to trim a cat’s whiskers — and that one’s true. Whiskers are special sensory tools that help cats balance, navigate, and even detect changes in air currents. Cutting them can disorient a cat and cause stress. But what about dogs? Recently, some groups (like PETA) have been raising awareness that dogs’ whiskers, or vibrissae, are also sensory hairs.

The truth: Unlike cats, dogs don’t rely on whiskers for balance or navigation in the same way. Groomers have traditionally trimmed dog whiskers (especially on breeds where a smooth face is part of the style). For most dogs, trimming whiskers is harmless. That said, whiskers do provide sensory feedback, so some pet parents now prefer to leave them intact.

At Petopia, I can work with your preference. If you’d like your dog’s whiskers left untrimmed, just let me know — I’m happy to adjust.

Myth #4: Grooming Pet Myths 👻

A: “Bathing too often ruins a dog’s coat” 

The truth: With the wrong shampoo, yes — over-bathing can strip natural oils and cause dryness. But with a gentle, pH-balanced dog shampoo and conditioner, regular bathing is healthy. In fact, keeping skin clean reduces itching, allergies, and odor. Some dogs (especially with allergies or skin conditions) do better with weekly baths using vet-approved products.

B: “Shaving a double coat makes it grow back wrong” 

The truth: Double coats (like on Golden Retrievers, Huskies, or German Shepherds) act as natural insulation — keeping dogs cool in summer and warm in winter. Shaving can:

• Damage the balance between undercoat and guard hairs.

• Cause uneven or patchy regrowth.

• Change coat texture permanently (frizzier, softer, duller).

• Reduce natural protection from sunburn and temperature swings.

That’s why I don’t recommend shaving double-coated dogs unless it’s absolutely necessary — for medical reasons, severe matting, or comfort in old age. De-shedding, brushing, and coat maintenance are far better ways to keep these dogs comfortable.

C: "Don’t cut your puppy’s hair until they’re six months old!”

I hear this one all the time, especially from doodle breeders and online groups.

The truth: Waiting months before a first haircut actually makes things harder on your pup. Early grooming is about getting them used to the process, not about styling. When puppies come in around 12–16 weeks (after vaccines), we can keep sessions short, gentle, and positive.

That early start teaches them that grooming is safe and normal — the sounds, tools, and handling all become familiar. Puppies who wait too long often get matted, nervous, or fearful later, which makes grooming stressful for everyone. So while it’s cute to let the fluff grow out, the truth is early, calm introductions = confident, happy dogs for life.

D: “Nail trimming hurts dogs” 

The truth: Nail trimming only hurts if the quick (the blood vessel inside the nail) is cut — which is why people fear it. But when done properly and regularly, nail trimming is painless and prevents joint pain, posture problems, and nail breakage. Regular trims also help the quick recede, so nails can stay healthier and shorter over time.

E: “Ear plucking always causes infections”

The truth: Ear plucking is one of the most debated grooming topics. Some vets recommend it to keep hair from blocking airflow; others say leave ears alone unless there’s a problem. The reality is that every dog is different. That’s why I only pluck when it’s requested, or when I know it will help that specific dog.

Conclusion

Superstitions can be fun on Halloween or Friday the 13th, but when it comes to pet care, it’s always better to rely on facts. Black cats aren’t bad luck, dogs don’t howl at ghosts, and grooming — when done correctly — doesn’t harm pets.

At Petopia, I like to mix a little fun with a lot of truth. My goal is always the same: keeping grooming gentle, stress-free, and focused on your dog’s overall well-being. Please visit my other blogs for a deeper dive into some of these topics.