Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link & purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.
Is your dog terrified of fireworks? Even the bravest pups can get shaky and scared when those big booms start happening.
As a dog owner, seeing our furry friends so afraid during these loud celebrations is heartbreaking.
But there are simple ways we can help keep our dogs calm when the fireworks start.
In this post, I share 13 proven expert tips to soothe your dog’s fear of fireworks.
From creating a cozy den for them to hide in, to using calming supplements, you’ll discover effective strategies to turn those tail-tucking tremors into relaxation.
Let’s go through these tips so you can help your dog stay poised and peaceful during the noisy holiday celebrations.
Table of Contents
13 Tips To Help Calm Your Dog During Fireworks
Fireworks displays are usually dreaded by dog owners everywhere! Why? Because no one wants to see their pup terrified and trembling.
By following along with these expert tips below, you’ll be better prepared to make your anxious dog feel safe and secure.
1. Desensitize Your Dog To Fireworks Sound
A great starting point is desensitizing your dog to the noise of fireworks. Play recordings of fireworks at low volumes to get your pup used to the sound.
Pair the sound with positive reinforcement to help your dog associate it with something good.
2. Exercise Before The Fireworks
A good amount of exercise earlier in the day can help tire your dog out and feel calmer during the fireworks.
Schedule walks earlier in the evening before the fireworks begin so that your pup is safely inside during the loud noises.
3. Create A Safe, Comfortable Space
Provide a quiet enclosed space for your dog such as a crate, bedroom, or bathroom, with your pup’s favourite toys and bedding.
If your dog is crate-trained, he will feel safer and more secure in his cozy den.
Ensure the space is soundproofed as much as possible.
4. Stay Close And Comforting
Your presence and calm voice can be very reassuring to your dog. Sit with your dog and pet them gently.
5. Drown Out The Sights And Sounds
Close all curtains and blinds and keep the lights on to minimize flashes of fireworks that can startle your pup.
Drown out the noise of fireworks by turning the TV. on or playing soothing music in the background.
The relaxing music in the video below has been very effective at calming dogs during fireworks:
6. Distract With Interactive Toys And Treats
Keep your dog’s mind occupied by offering their favourite high-value treats or food puzzles.
A Kong filled with peanut butter, treat dispensing toys, puzzle feeders, and other mentally stimulating toys can redirect your dog’s attention and keep them busy for a while.
7. Don’t Punish Fear
Scolding or forcing your dog to face their fears will only increase their anxiety.
Be patient and compassionate.
8. Try Calming Supplements
Ask your vet about supplements like melatonin, L-theanine, or pheromone sprays that can help soothe anxiety.
9. Invest In Anxiety Reducing Tools
Consider using an anxiety wrap such as the Thundershirt which is highly effective at calming your dog during fireworks, thunderstorms, and other loud noises.
It applies gentle, constant pressure, like swaddling an infant, to keep your dog calm.
Another option is to invest in a calming dog bed. These beds are donut-shaped with a shag faux fur exterior to soothe your dog’s anxiety.
10. Lead By Example
During fireworks, it’s crucial for you to remain calm, confident and in control.
Your dog looks to you for cues on how to behave. Act normal, happy, and unfazed by the noises.
This will reassure your pup that there’s no need to be afraid.
11. Ensure Your Dog Is Fed And Hydrated
Ensure your dog is well-fed and has access to plenty of fresh water before the fireworks start.
Anxious dogs may refuse to eat or drink during the fireworks, so providing nourishment earlier in the day can help keep them comfortable.
12. Ensure Proper Identification
Make sure your dog’s collar and ID tags are up-to-date in case they become frightened and manage to escape.
This will increase the chances of them being returned home safely.
Consider microchipping your dog as another layer of security.
13. Consider Medication
If your dog’s fireworks anxiety is severe and other methods aren’t providing sufficient relief, talk to your veterinarian about anti-anxiety medications or natural supplements to help keep them calm.
Your vet knows your pet’s unique needs best and can recommend the safest, most effective options.
After The Fireworks
Now that the fireworks have ended, it’s time to help your dog recover and return to their normal routine.
Consider these post-fireworks tips:
- Comfort and Reassure: Your dog may still be shaken up, so continue providing calming affection, gentle petting, and verbal reassurance. Let them know they are safe.
- Gradual Reintroduction: Slowly reintroduce your dog to their normal environment and activities. Don’t force interaction, but gently encourage them to resume their normal behaviours.
- Monitor for Lingering Anxiety: Watch for signs that your dog is still stressed or traumatized, such as refusing to leave their safe space, or excessive panting or trembling. Consult your vet if the symptoms persist.
- Review and Refine: Take a moment to reflect on how your fireworks preparation plan worked and what you might do differently next time. Make notes to improve your approach for the future.
- Celebrate a Job Well Done: You put a lot of work into keeping your dog comfortable, take a moment to feel proud of yourself, and give your pup some extra love and treats.
Fireworks Anxiety In Dogs FAQs
Get quick answers to common questions about helping your dog cope with the stress of fireworks.
1. How Early Should I Prepare My Dog For Fireworks?
It’s best to start desensitization training and implementing calming strategies 2-3 weeks before the expected fireworks.
This gives your dog time to get comfortable with the sights and sounds.
2. What If My Dog Destroys Things When Anxious?
Try to dog-proof your home by removing any breakable or valuable items from areas your dog has access to.
Provide chew toys and puzzle feeders to redirect their nervous energy.
3. How Do I Know If My Dog Needs Medication?
If other calming methods don’t work, and your dog’s anxiety is severe, talk to your vet about anti-anxiety medications or natural supplements that could help.
4. Why Are Dogs So Afraid Of Fireworks?
Fireworks are loud, they happen unexpectedly, and they’re accompanied by sudden flashes of light.
All of these combined can startle a dog causing them to become anxious and scared.
5. How Do Fireworks Differ From Thunderstorms?
Fireworks have more abrupt, unpredictable sounds compared to the gradual buildup of thunderstorms.
Dogs can sense a thunderstorm long before we can, as their hearing and sense of smell are far superior to ours.
Changes in barometric pressure and vibrations and sounds of thunder can be sensed by your dog from far away.
According to thedodo.com, bad weather is just 1 of 5 amazing things dogs can sense before they happen.
Whereas with fireworks, the noise is sudden and always different and your dog has no way of knowing when they start or end.
Final Thoughts
Fireworks can be a major source of anxiety and distress for many dogs.
But, with the right preparation and management techniques, you can help your pup get through the noisy festivities with minimal stress.
Start desensitizing your dog to fireworks sounds well in advance. On the big day, make sure to exercise them beforehand, create a safe space, and use calming tools. Stay close and comforting, and distract with treats and interactive toys.
If your dog’s anxiety is severe, consult your veterinarian about anti-anxiety medications or supplements. And be sure to have a plan in case your pup tries to escape.
After the fireworks, continue providing comfort and slowly reintroduce them to the sounds. With patience and consistency, you can help your furry friend overcome their fireworks phobia.
By following these tips, you can ensure your dog’s safety and well-being during this loud time of year. With the right approach, you can both get through fireworks season with ease.
Now it’s your turn – what are your best tips and techniques for keeping your pup calm during fireworks? Share your advice in the comments below. I would love to hear from you.
Hi, I’m Jenny, the owner and content creator of First Time Dog Mom. As the proud owner of Ellie, my senior Golden Retriever, I share the insights and tips I’ve learned through my own experiences as a dog mom. With a lifelong love of animals, I hope to be a helpful resource for others navigating the joys and challenges of pet parenthood.
This is a very informative post. Sadly you get many dog owners that do not care to comfort their dogs during fireworks and thunderstorms, the dogs run away and the owner often realizes it too late. I used to have a few 4 legged children and it is funny how some of them showed no interest in fireworks or thunder and others were so afraid that they were hiding in the house until it was calm again. I even had cats that were very afraid of fireworks and thunderstorms. I always made them comfortable and kept them close to me, my calmness reassured them that nothing will happen to them. They have all gone to heaven now and I decided not to keep animals anymore.
Hi Carola,
Our pets are very perceptive about how we handle ourselves, and how we are feeling. They can sense when we are nervous, angry or scared, and will often exhibit the same behaviour. If you remain calm during fireworks or thunderstorms, then our pets will adapt to the same calmness. Just as you mentioned, remaining calm has reassured your pets that nothing bad would happen to them.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experience.
Jenny.
This was a very useful post on how to keep a dog calm when fireworks are being fired off. This happens quite often in Dubai, and our two dogs sometimes get very nervous and fidgety. Because there are normally a lot of other people watching, it does help to know the steps that you advise.
I think mainly it is the triggering of the fight or flight response that does it for our two. We keep them on leashes so they cannot run away, but I am sure they would if that was not the case. So the steps are what I was looking for to help, and I will be trying them soon.
The YouTube video trick is one I will try along with bringing some food and water for them. We also comfort them as much as possible too while the fireworks are being blown, and maybe we will try leaving them with a neighbour or have someone dog sit for us next time.
The Thundershirt is another trick that might work well. This is another trick that I was not aware of and it is worth a try too. I do like to have the dogs with us for family events, so I am willing to try all these steps to make it as comfortable as possible for them. Thanks for the great advice!
Hi Dave,
I am sure that your dogs feel more at ease with you being there to comfort them while the fireworks are going on. You are a good dog owner for wanting to include them in your family events, after all, dogs are family.
However, it might be best to have a neighbour or friend dog sit for them so that they can feel more comfortable at home where it is quiet. If that isn’t possible, the Thundershirt is definitely something to try when they are with you during fireworks, or even during thunderstorms. You’ll be amazed at how calm your dogs are while wearing it.
Hope this helps you out. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and taking the time to comment.
Jenny.
Oh my! My black lab, Budweiser, goes mental whenever he hears fireworks and I hate every minute of it.
There has never been anything I could do to calm him down when they are going off and I really wish there was.
I would have thought that him being nearly 5 he would be used to it by now but he still has that scared look in his eyes whenever bonfire night comes around.
If the steps to help dogs through loud fireworks that you have here don’t work, what else can I do?
Hi Matthew,
Fireworks are really scary for dogs, and because they only happen on special occasions it is hard for dogs to get used to them. The same goes for thunder because it is not a daily occurrence.
The steps that I have mentioned do work to help keep a dog calm during fireworks. If possible, it is always best to avoid fireworks with your dog and leave him at home in a safe place. If your dog is going to be around loud noise, I highly recommend the Thundershirt to help keep him calm and ease his anxiety. It really does work, and many dog owners love it.
As dogs get older, they sometimes develop more anxiety and things that didn’t bother them before may bother them now, or even more. Something to consider because you mentioned your dog Budweiser is almost 5 yrs old.
Definitely try the steps that I have mentioned, and start with playing a loud Fireworks video and offering your dog treats and engage in some playtime while the video is on. This way your dog will associate fireworks with good things.
Hopefully, this helps you out and maybe your dog Budweiser will learn to enjoy Bonfire night as much as you do, or at least tolerate it.
Good Luck, and thanks for taking the time to comment.
Jenny.
Wow, great topic! Most of the dog’s that I see around fireworks go ballistic. I hadn’t thought about July 4th causing animal shelters to fill up more but it makes sense. Considering that, it’s important to know what to do in case of these booms. I like the ideas of getting the dog used to the sound and tire them out. Also, the Thundershirt sounds pretty awesome. I think playing Thunderstruck with the Thundershirt would be a perfect way to get them used to some loud noise. Great post!
Hi Pentrental,
Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I love your suggestion of playing the song “Thunderstruck” to get your dog used to loud noise. Great idea, plus now that song is stuck in my head! Lol!
The Thundershirt is really great because it applies constant gentle pressure to your dog in order to keep him calm. It is basically like giving your dog a comforting hug. It works really well for any dog who has noise anxiety as well as separation anxiety.
I am glad you enjoyed this post and thanks for taking the time to comment.
Jenny.
I always love coming to your website because you give me so much ideas that I can use to benefit my dog. This post is excellent and I found some of your ideas very interesting and I am very curious to try them out. Thanks Jenny. You are the best.
I am so glad you enjoyed this post, and I hope you have success with my suggestions. Thank you for commenting.