How to help your dog with their fear of fireworks

Fear of loud noises is incredibly common in dogs; studies show that between a quarter and a half of the pet dog population is affected. 

If your pup is one of the many pets who struggle with noise sensitivity, here are our top tips to help them stay calm. 

1. Create a safe space 

Provide a cosy nook for your dog to retreat to. When frightened, dogs tend to hide under furniture or in dark corners to feel safe. For example, you could cover their crate with a thick blanket and leave the door open, so they have the freedom to come and go. The blankets will absorb some of the noise and help them feel a little more secure. 

You can also turn on the TV or radio to provide a distraction and drown out any scary outdoor sounds. Becky from East Coast Dog Training recommends introducing a routine of playing relaxing music and giving your dog their favourite chew in the evenings leading up to fireworks night. This helps create a positive association between the music and the chew. On the night, put the music on before the fireworks start so they have a chance to settle in.  

2. Try a thunder jacket 

A thunder jacket, or thunder shirt, is a piece of material that wraps tightly around your dog’s chest and/or their head to provide a calming effect when they’re scared. Many dogs find this type of gentle pressure comforting, and it can drastically calm an anxious pup. 

If you don’t have a thunder jacket, you can use a scarf or a bandage to create your own anxiety wrap. Don’t leave a dog unattended while wearing a wrap, and don’t leave a makeshift thunder wrap on your dog for too long, as it may become irritating and uncomfortable for them. 

3. Keep doors and windows closed 

Once you and your pets are all cosy and safe indoors, make sure to keep any doors and windows closed. 

This will not only help to dampen loud noises from outside, but some animals might bolt in fear, so this keeps them safe and sound. 

4. Secure collars and ID tags 

This is also a good time to check that their harness is well-fitting, with up-to-date name tags and microchips.  

A member of the team shared: ‘I’ve been involved in multiple searches over the years for dogs who have bolted on their walks or from gardens due to sudden bangs, and it is awful to think of them outside and terrified.’ 

In the build-up to fireworks night and on the night, try to avoid walks when it’s dark. Walk earlier when it’s still light so you don’t come across any unexpected bangs. When it’s starting to get dark, keep any walks on lead, including toilet breaks – even in the garden. Don’t underestimate a frightened dog trying to escape a garden! 

5. Keep calm and stay together 

Don’t leave your pets home alone if you can avoid it during firework celebrations. Scared animals often try to escape and can end up hurting themselves. 

They might also come to you for comfort. If they are looking for a little reassurance, don’t ignore them; instead, react calmly and give them cuddles and attention. They will thank you for it! 

Pets are very attuned to human emotions; you might have noticed them trying to comfort you when you’ve been sad. Talk to them as you normally would and try not to make any drastic changes to your behaviour. This will help them realise that there is nothing to fear. 

Never ever punish your dog for being afraid. This can intensify their fear and create even bigger problems for you both down the line. 

6. Have fun! 

Keep your dog busy as you sit out the celebrations. Why not try out a fun enrichment activity like playing with their favourite toys or even try some reward-based training to distract them. 

However, if your pet is too scared of the noise to play, don’t force them. Give them the space they need to process their emotions in their own way. Offer them relaxing activities like a lick mat or a chew toy. They might just feel safest hiding in their makeshift den. If your dog is particularly stressed, speak to your vet in advance about medication to help alleviate anxiety.