Golden Retriever 'Confronts' Scary Ghost Dog Halloween Decor Like the Bravest Girl

Halloween is an exciting time for humans, but it's not always as fun for our dogs. After all, we have no real language to express to them that the scary decorations that have shown up all over the place — both in their homes and even outside along the path of their daily walks — are just for fun and can't hurt them. And don't get me started on the evening of October 31. My dog is more stressed out than anything else by people constantly walking up our driveway and ringing our doorbell, even if those people are actually adorable kids in costume looking for candy.

For all of those reasons, it's also a perfect season for the strongest soldiers among us to showcase their bravery. And when up against her spooky doppelgänger, this sweet Golden Retriever did her parents (and now, the entire internet) proud.

In this TikTok video, which was shared by @bailey_the_golden_girl, we get to see a sweet Golden Retriever named Bailey getting more than a bit spooked by a Halloween decoration that she ran into in the hallway.

To her credit, not only was it a ghost decoration, but it was a Golden Retriever dressed as a ghost, which had to add to the spook factor. But even though this little lady was clearly very hesitant, she did what she needed to do and got past the decoration. I knew Bailey could do it!

The video is made all the more perfect by the fact that it's set to the viral audio with the lyrics "she's so brave/she's well behaved/she is not afraid" that was originally created for another brave dog facing their fears. There wouldn't have been anything more appropriate than that!

Are Dogs Afraid of Halloween?

If you've noticed your dog behave like Bailey around Halloween decorations, or if they refuse to walk past a certain house in your neighborhood the entire month of October, there's a very good chance you've discovered their very real fear of Halloween (though of course, not all dogs share this fear, like any other trait).

According to what veterinarian Dr. Rachel Malamed told the American Kennel Club, the holiday may actually stress some dogs out , especially if they will be around people in costume.

"Many strangers in costume can be extremely scary and stressful for dogs,” Dr. Malamed said. “It is best to avoid this type of exposure if you have a fearful animal.”

Rather than trying to get your dog to conquer their fear, it's better to help them avoid being exposed to the scariest, most stressful parts of Halloween instead, like trick-or-treating. It's better to leave your pups at home!

It's sad to think they might miss out, but they'll be happier in a safe, comfy, familiar area. And then they won't steal your candy!