If your dog could talk, he'd probably tell you not to buy him a Halloween costume. Lucky for the American economy, our four-legged friends are still speechless.
According to the National Retail Federation, pet owners are projected to spend $370 million on animal costumes this year — a 19 percent increase from 2011. The top pet picks include a pumpkin, a devil and a hot dog. Clever.
Even Martha Stewart is getting in on this cash cow. But is dressing up your pet an act of animal cruelty? Judging by how much my two dogs enjoyed donning costumes, I'd say it's all in good fun.
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At right: Bear, a 1-year-old Havanese, is a vision as Superman.
Addie, an 8-year-old Labrador Retriever, is enjoying this more than she lets on.
Bear is looking quite coquettish in this Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader costume.
Hoods, while festive, are not particularly functional on dog costumes.
Bear the Havanese shows off his spider legs in this costume from Martha Stewart's line.
According to the National Retail Federation, a pumpkin is the most popular pet costume this year.
Don't let this photo fool you. Bear had a ball dressing up in Halloween costumes.
Bear takes a moment to reflect on how his life would be different as a dragon.
These six costumes were all purchased from — and promptly returned to — Petsmart. They totaled more than $100 and ranged from $12.99 (Superman) to $24.99 (Dallas Cowboys cheerleader).
