Fireworks can be exciting for us, but the sudden bangs, flashes and vibrations can be frightening for dogs. Some may hide or shake, while others bark, pace or try to escape.
If your dog is frightened of fireworks, there are several things you can do to help them feel safer.
How can I calm my dog during fireworks?
The best way to calm a dog during fireworks is to give them access to a safe, quiet space, reduce outside noise and remain nearby if they want your company. Close the curtains, play familiar background sounds and allow your dog to choose where they feel most comfortable.
Every dog responds differently, so pay attention to what helps yours feel secure rather than trying to encourage them to behave in a particular way.
Recognise the signs of firework anxiety
Dogs do not always express fear in obvious ways. Recognising the early signs of anxiety can help you respond before your dog becomes extremely distressed.
Signs that your dog may be frightened include:
- Trembling or shaking
- Panting or drooling
- Pacing or being unable to settle
- Barking, whining or howling
- Hiding behind furniture
- Trying to escape
- Refusing food
- Toileting indoors
- Staying unusually close to you
Some dogs may also become very still or quiet. Even if they are not making a noise, they could still be feeling anxious.
Create a quiet and comfortable hiding place
Prepare a safe space where your dog can retreat if the fireworks become overwhelming. This could be their usual bed, an open crate covered with a blanket, a quiet corner or a space beneath a table.
Add familiar bedding, favourite toys and something carrying your scent. Keep the entrance clear so your dog can come and go as they please. Never shut them inside or try to pull them out if they choose to hide.
Ideally, introduce this space before fireworks season so your dog already associates it with feeling relaxed and secure.
Reduce the noise and flashes
Before the fireworks begin, close your windows, curtains and blinds. This can help to soften loud bangs and block out sudden flashes of light.
Put on the television, radio or some familiar music at a comfortable volume to provide consistent background noise. Choose something your dog has heard before, as unfamiliar or overly loud sounds could add to their anxiety.
Moving to a room towards the centre of your home may also help, particularly if it’s away from windows and external walls.
Stay calm and offer reassurance
Dogs often look to their owners for reassurance, so try to remain relaxed and behave as normally as possible.
If your dog comes to you for comfort, it’s fine to reassure them gently. You will not make their fear worse by offering calm affection. However, avoid restraining them or insisting on cuddles if they would prefer to be left alone.
You can also reward calm behaviour with treats, praise or a gentle game. If your dog is too worried to eat or play, do not force them.
Keep your dog safely indoors
Walk your dog during daylight hours, well before any fireworks are expected to start. Once you’re home, keep them indoors and make sure all doors, windows and cat flaps are secure.
If your dog needs to go into the garden later, supervise them and keep them on a lead, even if your garden is enclosed. A sudden bang may cause a frightened dog to bolt or attempt to escape.
It’s also worth checking that their microchip details are up to date and that they’re wearing a collar with a current identification tag.
Provide a calming distraction
Some dogs respond well to a favourite chew, food-filled toy or simple activity that keeps their attention away from the noise. Sniffing activities, such as searching for treats around the room, may also help them relax.
Offer these activities before your dog becomes too anxious. A severely frightened dog may not want to eat or play, and that is completely normal. Simply make sure they have access to water, as anxious dogs may pant and become thirsty.
Avoid leaving your dog alone
Where possible, stay at home with your dog during a planned fireworks display. Your presence can provide valuable reassurance and allows you to monitor how they are coping.
If you do need to leave them, make sure they’re in a secure area with access to their safe space. Avoid taking your dog to a fireworks display, even if they have appeared comfortable around loud noises in the past. The volume and unpredictability can still be distressing.
Speak to your vet about severe firework anxiety
If your dog becomes extremely distressed during fireworks, struggles to recover afterwards or has injured themselves while trying to escape, please speak to your vet.
Depending on your dog’s needs, your vet may discuss suitable calming products, pheromone support, behavioural guidance or prescription medication. Never give your dog human medication or products that have not been recommended for them by a veterinary professional.
Try to contact your vet well before fireworks season begins. Some treatments need to be introduced in advance, and your vet will need time to recommend the safest approach for your individual dog.
Can dogs overcome their fear of fireworks?
With patience and the right support, many dogs can become less fearful of fireworks. Gradual sound desensitisation and positive reinforcement may help, but this should be started when fireworks are not taking place.
Firework recordings should initially be played at a very low volume while your dog is relaxed, increasing the sound gradually over several weeks or months. If your dog shows any signs of anxiety, stop and seek advice from your vet or a qualified clinical animal behaviourist.
Worried about your dog during fireworks? We’re here to help
Firework anxiety can be upsetting for both dogs and their owners, but you don’t have to manage it alone. If your dog struggles with loud noises, our friendly team can offer advice and discuss the support that may be suitable for them.
Please contact your local St Kitts practice before fireworks season or book an appointment online so we can help you and your dog prepare.
St Kitts Vets Hartley Wintney: 01252 844044
St Kitts Vets Basingstoke: 01256 844944
Crookham Park Veterinary Centre: 01252 913990
Firgrove Veterinary Centre: 01252 877799
