Helping Your Dog Through Firework Season

So many dogs struggle with firework season every year — and it’s no wonder why. Loud bangs, sudden flashes, and the uncertainty of when the next scary noise will happen can be incredibly distressing.

In fact, studies show that up to 80% of dogs show signs of fear or anxiety when fireworks are going off — that’s a huge number of pets feeling overwhelmed during something we often see as a celebration.

And to make matters harder, fireworks are no longer just a “one night” thing. These days, they often start earlier in the evening, go on until much later at night, and can last for weeks.

Why Fireworks Are So Difficult for Dog

Fireworks can reach up to 120 decibels — louder than a jackhammer or chainsaw. For dogs, whose hearing is four times more sensitive than ours, this level of noise can cause:

• Pain and discomfort

• Temporary or permanent hearing damage

• Increased stress, anxiety, or panic

Even if your dog was fine with fireworks last year, that can change. A single bad experience — or just becoming more sensitive with age — can make them react very differently the next time around. That’s why it’s so important to be prepared every year, no matter what.

Signs Your Dog Might Be Struggling

Every dog reacts differently, but here are some common signs of fear or anxiety related to fireworks:

• Pacing or restlessness

• Panting or drooling

• Barking or whining

• Ears pinned back

• Tail tucked

• Hiding or seeking constant reassurance

• Shaking or trembling

• Trying to escape (digging, jumping fences, bolting)

If you notice these signs, your dog may be feeling overwhelmed — but the good news is, there’s so much we can do to support them.

How to Help Your Dog Cope With Fireworks

Create a Safe Den

Make a comfy space for your dog to retreat to. A crate with blankets inside and over the top can work brilliantly. If you don’t use a crate, a corner of the room with soft bedding and a covered table or chair works too. Add a chew or toy to help them settle.

Use Enrichment and Distraction

Mental stimulation is just as tiring as physical exercise. Use:

• Chews

• Kongs

• Puzzle toys

• Licky mats (licking helps soothe and calm)

• Snuffle mats

• DIY enrichment games

These can help distract your dog and give them something positive to focus on.

Adjust Your Routine

Try to:

• Feed your dog earlier so they can go to the toilet before fireworks start.

• Walk earlier in the day — if it’s dark and fireworks have begun, skip the walk and play/train at home instead.

• Plan your evenings to be at home if possible — it’s much easier to support your dog when you’re there.

Offer Reassurance

If your dog comes to you for comfort, please give it to them. Reassuring your dog will not “make them more fearful” — it helps them feel safe.

Just make sure you stay calm and relaxed, as your energy matters too.

Block Out the Sounds

Keep the TV or radio on slightly louder than usual to help mask the firework sounds.

Close windows, curtains, and blinds to reduce both noise and flashes. Leaving the lights on inside can help dull the effect of bright flashes.

Double-Check Home & Garden Security

A scared dog can bolt in panic. Make sure fences, gates, and doors are secure, and that your dog can’t escape from the garden. Always supervise if they need to go outside after dark.

Get Support If Needed

If your dog is seriously distressed by fireworks, please don’t hesitate to contact your vet, a qualified trainer, or a behaviourist.

Bonus Training: Desensitisation to Firework Sounds

You can start preparing your dog before fireworks begin with this simple training technique:

1. Play firework sounds (like this YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0E4haJHYUJw) at a very low volume.

2. While it plays, give your dog something fun — a chew, puzzle toy, or interactive play.

3. If they stay relaxed, repeat the exercise daily.

4. Gradually increase the volume over time — but only if they remain calm and happy.

Go slow and be patient — this process doesn’t work if rushed. The goal is to help your dog associate firework sounds with positive experiences, not fear.

Final Thoughts

It’s completely okay — and very common — for dogs to be scared of fireworks. What matters most is how we respond and support them through it.

Even if it means adjusting your routine for a few weeks, the impact it has on your dog’s wellbeing is huge. With some preparation, patience, and consistency, you can make a massive difference to your dog’s experience during firework season.

So let’s be there for our dogs, support them through the tough nights, and be the calm, safe space they need.

Stay safe and take care of yourselves and your dogs this firework season.

Need Help or Advice?

If you're unsure how to support your dog this firework season, feel free to reach out. Whether you need quick tips or a personalised plan, I’m always happy to help.

Share this post with other dog owners who might need it — the more dogs we can help feel safe, the better.

14th October 2025