Dogs and Fireworks – 10 Things Every Owner Should Do

Dogs And Fireworks – 10 Things Every Dog Owner Should Do Around Firework Season

“Remember, remember the 5th of November” — a date most dog owners dread. Unfortunately, it’s rarely just one night. Fireworks often start before the 5th and can continue long into the New Year.

It’s heart breaking to watch our dogs shiver, pant and pace while fireworks explode around them. Many owners feel helpless, unsure what to do — or worse, worry that what they’re doing is making things harder.

So what should you do to turn a stressed dog into a calmer, happier one? Here are my 10 key tips:

1. Plan Ahead

🐶 Contact your local council to check when displays are planned.
🐶 Ask neighbours if they’re holding garden fireworks so you can be prepared.

2. Start Desensitisation Training

🐶 Play CDs or downloads of firework sounds at low volume while giving treats or playing games.
🐶 Gradually increase the volume so your dog learns to associate the bangs with something positive.
🐶 Dogs Trust offers free sound therapy resources here: Sounds Scary!

This isn’t an overnight fix, but it gives you control and helps many dogs adjust in advance.

3. Check Collars and ID Tags

🐶 Ensure your dog is wearing a collar and ID tag.
🐶 Double-check their microchip details are up to date.
If panic causes them to bolt, this could be a lifesaver.

4. Try Dog Appeasing Pheromones (D.A.P)

🐶 Available as plug-ins, collars or sprays, these mimic the pheromones nursing mothers release to calm puppies.
🐶 Helpful for dogs with firework anxiety, separation stress, or general nervousness.

5. Consider a Thundershirt

🐶 This snug vest applies gentle pressure, thought to calm the nervous system.
🐶 Use before, during or after fireworks to reduce stress and anxiety.
Available from pet stores, Amazon and eBay.

6. Explore Natural Remedies

🐶 Bach Rescue Remedy for pets – a blend of 5 natural flower essences for reassurance.
🐶 Skullcap & Valerian – licensed herbal medicines that reduce stress, nervousness and excitability. (Dorwest Herbs is a popular supplier.)
🐶 Homeopathic remedies – Aconite (fear after a fright), Borax (fear of sudden noises), Gelsemium (fear with trembling). Ask a homeopathic vet for advice.

7. Exercise and Routine

🐶 Give your dog a good walk and mental stimulation earlier in the day.
🐶 Feed them a few hours before fireworks begin.
🐶 Offer water and plan the last toilet trip before dark — it may be the final one of the day.

8. Create a Safe Place

🐶 Many dogs seek out a den — a crate, under a bed, or even a wardrobe.
🐶 Cover a crate with blankets to muffle sounds.
🐶 Don’t worry if your dog climbs on furniture — they’re just finding comfort.

9. Close Curtains and Add Background Noise

🐶 Shut windows and curtains to soften noise and block flashes.
🐶 Play the TV or radio — soothing or classical music works best.

10. Stay Calm and Give the Right Signals

This is the most important tip of all.

🐶 Act as if nothing is happening — your calm presence is your dog’s greatest reassurance.
🐶 Don’t feel sorry for them, don’t get frustrated, and don’t try to reason with them.
🐶 For dogs that pant, pace or run around, calmly place them on a lead by your side. Keeping them still helps them settle faster.
🐶 Once they’ve calmed down, offer gentle praise and strokes.

When you remain calm and grounded, your dog will gradually relax too.

Final Thoughts

Firework season is tough on our dogs, but with preparation, calm energy and the right support, you can make it easier. These steps will help your dog cope better — and help you feel more in control too.

🐾 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.