Dogs and fireworks
It’s difficult to explain to a dog why usually quiet and peaceful night times have become noisy and bright all of a sudden. Pets are often scared of the bangs and flashes… but our firework survival guide will help you and your dog through the season and major events like Bonfire night and New Year’s Eve.
How to keep your dog happy during fireworks
It’s a good idea to time walks earlier in the day before the fireworks start. Keep your dog on-lead if you think fireworks will be let off.
Always keep your dog indoors when fireworks are being let off.
Switching the TV or radio on might help to muffle the sound, but make sure it’s not too loud and don’t try this if your dog isn’t used to noises from the television.
Close the curtains to black out any flashing lights from outside.
Dogs are likely to drink more when they are worried, so fill their water bowl up to the brim.
Speak to your vet about Adaptil products, which contain ‘dog appeasing pheromone’ – these may help promote a feeling of calm for your dog.
Make sure your dog is microchipped and your information is up to date so your dog can be returned to you if they are spooked by fireworks and run off. By law your dog should be wearing an ID tag with the owner’s name and address displayed when they are in a public place, too. If your phone number is easily readable you will have a better chance of being reunited quickly.
Don’t tie your dog up outside while fireworks are being let off, ie outside a shop while you pop inside, or leave him in the garden or alone in the car.
It’s not a good idea to take your dog to a fireworks display, and indoor fireworks aren’t dog-friendly either. Even if they don’t whimper at the noise, it doesn’t mean they are happy. Panting and yawning are both signs that indicate your dog is stressed.
What to do if your dog is stressed by fireworks
Dogs show they are stressed or anxious in lots of ways, including panting excessively, drooling, shaking, yawning, and putting their tail between their legs.
Let your worried dog pace around, whine and hide in a corner if he wants to. Once they have found a safe space try not to disturb them.
Dogs may like to hide in a den where they can feel safe and comfortable when loud noises are all around. This could be under your bed or behind the sofa.
Placing some of your clothes there might help to keep your pet calm.
Although it’s difficult when it’s obvious your pet is stressed, try not to let your dog know you are worried as it may make the problem worse. Stay calm, act normally and give lots of praise for calm behaviour. It’s okay to cuddle and stroke your pet if it helps them relax, but if they prefer to hide under your bed, then let them do this instead.
It goes without saying that you should not shout at your pet. If you have to leave your house during firework season and come home to find your dog has been destructive or toileted, don’t get angry with them. Reprimanding them won’t help and will also make your dog more stressed.
My dog hates fireworks - I'm dreading fireworks season
If you know your pet hates loud, high pitched or sudden noises, it’s likely they will struggle to cope with the firework season.
Speak to your vet well in advance as they may be able to prescribe calming medication that might help your dog if they really struggle over this period.
It’s worth considering sound therapy, which slowly desensitizes your pet to the zips, whizzes and bangs of fireworks.
Ask your vet or a qualified behaviourist about this, but any training will have to start three to six months in advance of the firework season.