Dogs and Fireworks – How to Keep Your Dog Calm and Safe

With Bonfire Night fast approaching, it can be one of the most stressful times of the year for dogs (and their owners!). And it’s not just the 5th of November that causes problems — fireworks often start before Bonfire Night and continue well into the New Year.

So, what can you do? How do you best support your four-legged friend when the bangs, pops, and flashes begin? The answer might surprise you — because in many cases, it’s the complete opposite of what most people naturally do!

Things to Try in Advance

🌿 Natural Remedies

• Bach Flowers Rescue Remedy – specially made for animals, these flower and tree essences can have a calming effect. You’ll find them online if you search “rescue remedy for dogs.”

• Skullcap and Valerian – available as tablets or liquid from Dorwest Herbs (dorwest.com), this herbal option is great for firework anxiety or even travel sickness.

• Homeopathy – remedies like Aconite (for dogs badly frightened by thunder), Borax (for fear of sudden noises), and Gelsemium (for trembling and shaking from loud sounds) can all be prescribed by a homeopathic vet.

🐾 D.A.P (Dog Appeasing Pheromone)

Available as a plug-in, collar, or spray, this pheromone mimics what mother dogs naturally release to calm their puppies. Many owners find it works wonders for anxious or nervous dogs.

💿 Sound Therapy CDs
Believe it or not, you can desensitise your dog to scary noises by gradually introducing them via sound CDs. Websites such as soundtherapy4pets.com sell recordings of fireworks, thunder, traffic, and even baby noises — complete with instructions to help your dog adjust.

What to Do on Firework Night

Here’s the golden rule: whatever you give attention to, you nurture.

If your dog is pacing, panting, barking, or trembling, stroking and “poor-thing” reassurance will actually feed that fearful state. Instead:

• Stay calm and act as though nothing unusual is happening.

• If your dog is running to doors or windows, gently put them on a lead and keep them by your side. The stillness helps them settle quicker than pacing around the room.

• Sit quietly with them while watching TV or reading — your calm, confident presence is the best reassurance.

• If your dog likes to hide or make a little den, let them. Just don’t coax or comfort them like a child, as this increases anxiety.

When you remain steady and positive, your dog will pick up on your energy. Over time, they’ll calm down much faster and learn there’s nothing to fear.

🐾 Would you like more step-by-step help with your dog? You’ll find proven solutions in my Dog Training DVDs and Online Courses — trusted by over 26,000 dog owners worldwide. And remember to scroll back up to grab your FREE eBook, packed with kind, effective methods to stop pulling, aggression, and unwanted behaviour.