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The nature of fireworks as loud, sudden, and unpredictable makes them a major trigger for dogs. This is why Bonfire Night can be particularly overwhelming as fireworks often last for extended periods.
Some dogs may run, hide, or try to escape, while others might bark, whine, or even become destructive in an attempt to deal with their fear.
Noise anxiety can also intensify over time. If your dog has had a difficult experience during a past Bonfire Night, they may grow even more fearful as the next one approaches. Knowing how to help your four-legged friend on Bonfire Night is essential for keeping them safe and calm.
Noise anxiety in dogs is an intense fear or distress caused by loud or sudden sounds like thunderstorms, sirens, or most commonly around Bonfire Night – fireworks. Dogs have a much sharper sense of hearing than humans, which makes them more sensitive to the booms, cracks, and whistles of fireworks.
“For dogs the loud, unpredictable sounds of fireworks and bonfires can trigger anxiety.”
Before the fireworks begin, here are some simple steps to prepare to help your dog cope:
If your dog struggles on Bonfire Night, here are some practical steps to help them feel more comfortable during the fireworks. These include:
Designate a quiet room or corner away from windows where your dog can retreat to on Bonfire Night. You can fill it with their favourite blankets, toys, and bedding to make it a cosy and familiar environment that they feel safe and secure in.
There are a variety of calming aids designed specifically for dogs that can help reduce anxiety. Products like calming collars, diffusers, and sprays with pheromones can make a big difference for dogs on Bonfire Night. You might also consider anxiety wraps or jackets that apply gentle pressure to your dog and can have a calming effect.
You can try to drown out the sound of fireworks by playing white noise, soft music, or even the television at a reasonable volume. This can help distract your dog on Bonfire Night from the startling sounds outside. Classical music is known to have a soothing effect on dogs, so this could be a good option for you to consider playing.
Giving your dog something to focus toon can help divert their attention from the fireworks. Try offering a puzzle toy or a long-lasting chew treat. Mental engagement can help reduce stress.
Your dog can pick up on your emotions too, so try to remain calm and composed during the fireworks. Speak to them in a gentle, reassuring voice and offer comforting physical contact like petting or snuggling.
For long-term relief, desensitisation training can be a great tool. Getting your pup used to loud and sudden noises when they are little can help them to be more relaxed when there’s fireworks. You can try playing recordings of fireworks at a low volume and gradually increasing the sound over time while rewarding your dog for staying calm.
In cases of severe anxiety or if you’re worried about your dog before Bonfire Night, you can consult a member of our team and we would be more than happy to arrange a vet consultation or simply offer some advice. In certain cases, anti-anxiety medications or other treatments can be recommended that can help calm your dog on Bonfire night. Please make sure you contact a member of our team, before giving your dog any medications.
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