Helping Your Dog Through Firework Season

Firework season can be a difficult time for dogs and their guardians. Some dogs cope quite comfortably, while others find the flashes and unpredictable bangs frightening.

Every dog is an individual, so what helps one dog may not help another. Preparing ahead, recognising when your dog is struggling and giving them choices can help you support them through it. 🐾

Prepare before the fireworks begin

Find out when local displays are taking place, but remember that fireworks may happen on other evenings too.

If your dog has struggled in previous years, speak to your vet early. They can discuss suitable treatment, including medication where appropriate, and whether a referral for behaviour support would help. You don’t need to wait until your dog is extremely distressed to ask for help.

What is desensitisation training?

Desensitisation training means gradually helping your dog become comfortable with a sound by introducing it at a very low volume that doesn’t cause fear.

For fireworks, this involves using recordings, starting quietly enough that your dog remains relaxed. The volume is increased in small steps over multiple sessions, only while your dog continues to feel comfortable. You can pair the sounds with something they enjoy, such as treats or gentle play.

If your dog shows signs of worry, stop and make the next session easier by lowering the volume. The aim is to build confidence at their pace.

Start well in advance—ideally months before firework season—and follow a structured programme, such as Dogs Trust’s sound therapy resources. If your dog is already frightened of fireworks, seek guidance from your vet or a qualified behaviour professional.

Don’t begin desensitisation training while real fireworks are happening. If fireworks are already taking place, focus on helping your dog feel safe and comfortable.

Plan daylight walks

Move your usual evening walk to daylight hours where possible, allowing time to get home and settle before dark.

Choose an enjoyable walk that suits your dog. There’s no need to exhaust them: time to sniff, explore and enjoy gentle activities can be part of their day.

Never take your dog to a firework display, even if they have previously seemed comfortable with loud noises.

Keep doors and gardens secure

A frightened dog may try to escape, so check gates, fences, doors and windows.

Accompany your dog into the garden for toilet breaks and use a secure lead if there is a risk of them bolting. Try to offer a toilet opportunity before fireworks begin, and don’t force them outside while they are frightened.

If someone comes to the door, make sure your dog is safely away from the entrance before opening it. Check that their microchip contact details and identification tag are up to date too.

Create somewhere safe and cosy

Give your dog access to a quiet place where they can retreat. This might be a bed beside you, a space behind the sofa or a familiar den.

If your dog already enjoys their crate, you could partially cover it with a blanket, keeping it well ventilated and leaving the door open.

Introduce the space ahead of time. Let your dog choose whether to use it, and avoid pulling them out of a hiding place where they feel safe.

Close the curtains to reduce flashes and shut windows to soften outside noise. Familiar television or music at a comfortable volume may help mask some of the bangs.

Offer activities without pressure

Have a few familiar activities ready, such as an easy scentwork game, scatter feeding or a suitable lick mat.

Let your dog decide whether they want to join in. If they would rather rest or hide, that’s okay. Refusing a normally favourite treat can also be a sign that they are finding things difficult.

The aim is to offer something enjoyable, without adding pressure.

Comfort your dog if they need you

You do not need to ignore a frightened dog.

If your dog seeks reassurance, offer calm company and gentle contact if they enjoy it. If they prefer some space, respect that choice.

Keep things as familiar as possible and stay with them, or arrange for someone they know and trust to be there. Never punish barking, pacing, hiding or toileting caused by fear.

Recognise when extra help is needed

Fear can look different from one dog to another. Signs may include trembling, panting, pacing, hiding, becoming unusually clingy or trying to escape.

Speak to your vet if your dog is struggling. Ask about any supplements, pheromone products or pressure wraps before relying on them, and only use wearable products your dog is comfortable with.

Allow time to recover

Watch how your dog feels the following day. Some will be ready for their usual routine; others may need a quieter day.

If your dog is still unsettled, choose familiar surroundings, gentle enrichment and quieter walks where they feel comfortable. Dogs who already struggle with outdoor triggers may benefit from fewer demands while they recover

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There is no fixed recovery timetable. Let your dog’s behaviour guide you.

Your dog doesn’t have to face their fear alone. Preparation, patience and a reassuring presence can help you find what works for them. 🐶

Maria Canine Care — reward-based dog walking in Mansfield.

Further reading

● Dogs Trust: Supporting your dog during fireworks

● Dogs Trust: Sound therapy and firework training

● Blue Cross: Dogs and fireworks