Fireworks may be exciting for us, but for dogs, they can be terrifying. If you’ve ever wondered how to keep your dog calm during fireworks, the loud bangs, unpredictable flashes, and intense sounds are usually the biggest triggers of anxiety and fear. Many dogs tremble, hide, or panic when fireworks go off, and for some, the fear is so intense that they completely shut down.
I’ve seen this firsthand with my mom’s dog, Benji. The moment she hears a firework – or even something remotely similar, like thunder – she completely shuts down. She curls into a ball, trembles uncontrollably, and stays frozen for hours. No amount of coaxing, petting, or comforting makes a difference. It’s heartbreaking to watch, and it made me realize how deeply fireworks can affect our furry friends.
But not all dogs react this way. My dog Leksi, who sadly passed away a little over a year ago, was the complete opposite. She wasn’t afraid of anything – not the rain, not the thunder, and definitely not fireworks. While other dogs hid or panicked, Leksi slept through New Year’s Eve like a baby, completely unbothered by the noise outside. She had a naturally calm temperament, but I know that for many dogs, fireworks are a real struggle.
Unfortunately, dogs like Leksi are rare. Many experience severe stress and fear, and since they don’t understand what’s happening, they rely on us to help them feel safe. The good news? With the right preparation, training, and a calm environment, you can reduce your dog’s fear of fireworks and help them stay more relaxed.
How to keep your dog calm during fireworks
If your dog is afraid of fireworks, don’t wait until the last minute to comfort them. The best way to help is through preparation and gradual exposure. Some methods, like socialization and desensitization, work best when introduced weeks or even months in advance. Others, like setting up a safe space and maintaining a calm environment, can help on the night of the fireworks display.
Each dog is different, so you might need to try a combination of techniques to find what works best for your furry friend. Here are some of the most effective ways to help dogs manage their fear of fireworks.
1. Socialization CD for puppies
If your dog is still a puppy, early exposure to different sights and sounds can make a big difference. Playing a socialization CD with firework noises in a calm and safe environment can help them get used to these sounds gradually. The key is to associate the noise with positive experiences – give them treats, play with their favorite toy, or cuddle them while the sounds play softly in the background.
By doing this early on, your puppy is less likely to develop a fear of fireworks as they grow. The goal isn’t to eliminate their instinct to react to loud noises but rather to teach them that these sounds aren’t dangerous.
2. Desensitization CDs for adult dogs
For older dogs that already fear fireworks, desensitization CDs can be a game-changer. Unlike socialization, this method focuses on retraining their response to loud sounds.
Start by playing firework sounds at a very low volume, ensuring your dog remains relaxed. Over several weeks, slowly increase the volume and duration – but only if your dog doesn’t show signs of distress. If they seem uncomfortable, take a step back and go slower.
Patience is key. This process takes time, but if done correctly, it can reduce their fear and anxiety significantly over time.
3. Create a safe space for your dog
Having a designated safe space can help your dog feel more secure during fireworks. This should be a quiet, enclosed area where they can retreat when feeling scared.
- Create a den – Place your pet’s bed or crate in a cozy corner, cover it with blankets, and line it with pillows for comfort.
- Choose a quiet room – Preferably one where the noise is less intense.
- Let them come and go freely – Never force them to stay inside their safe spot.
If your dog naturally seeks out a different hiding spot, like under the bed or behind the sofa, let them be. The goal is to make them feel in control of where they feel safest.
4. Try calming pheromones
Dogs respond to pheromones, which are natural chemical signals that help them relax. You can find plug-in diffusers, sprays, or pheromone-infused collars that release these calming scents. These can be useful if your dog’s anxiety is moderate.
However, pheromones aren’t a magic fix, and some dogs may not respond to them at all. If possible, try natural calming methods first, such as gentle massages, white noise, or a comforting routine.
5. Behavioral training
If your dog struggles with extreme firework anxiety, long-term behavioral training may be the best solution. The goal is to help them build confidence and learn that loud noises aren’t a threat.
However, this type of training takes time, patience, and consistency. If your dog’s fear is severe, you may want to consult a professional dog trainer or a veterinarian to determine the best approach. In some cases, anxiety might be linked to an underlying medical issue, so it’s always a good idea to rule that out first.
6. Extra steps to keep your dog calm during fireworks
Besides the techniques above, here are additional steps to ensure your dog stays as relaxed as possible:
- Take them for a long walk early in the evening – Burning off extra energy can help them feel more settled. If you bring your pup to a dog park, make sure you follow these safety tips.
- Close doors, windows, and dog flaps – This minimizes noise and prevents accidental escapes.
- Draw the curtains – Blocking out bright flashes can help reduce their anxiety.
- Play calming music or white noise – A steady, repetitive beat can help mask the sound of fireworks.
- Stay calm and act normal – Dogs pick up on our emotions, so if you remain relaxed, they’re more likely to feel safe.
- Let them hide if they want – If they feel secure in a specific spot, don’t force them to leave.
- Comfort them, but don’t overdo it – If they seek reassurance, give them gentle affection, but avoid excessive coddling as it may reinforce their fear.
- Never punish a scared dog – Yelling or scolding will only increase their anxiety.
- Give them a high-carb meal an hour before the fireworks – This can make them feel sleepy and more relaxed.
- Ensure their microchip details are up to date – Dogs sometimes panic and run away. A microchip with updated contact info increases the chances of finding them if they get lost.
Final thoughts
Fireworks may be fun for us, but they’re overwhelming for many dogs. Now that you know how to keep your dog calm during fireworks, start preparing early by setting up a safe space, using training techniques, and offering comfort when needed. Every dog reacts differently, so be patient and observe what works best for your furry friend.
By using a mix of socialization, desensitization, and comforting techniques, you can help your dog feel safer and more secure, even on the noisiest of nights.