For a lot of UK dogs, fireworks season is the most stressful time of the year. It isn’t just one night: displays can start in late October, carry on around Bonfire Night and Diwali, and come back again on New Year’s Eve. The good news is that a bit of planning makes a real difference.
This guide covers what to do in the weeks before, on the night itself, and the signs that mean it’s time to speak to your vet.
Signs your dog is scared of fireworks
Some dogs make their fear obvious; others are quieter about it. Look out for:
- Trembling, shaking or panting when they aren’t hot
- Hiding, cowering or trying to get behind furniture
- Pacing, restlessness or not settling
- Barking, whining or howling
- Clinging to you, or trying to escape the house or garden
- Going off their food, or toilet accidents indoors
In the weeks before fireworks season
Talk to your vet early if your dog struggles
If your dog has been badly affected in previous years, book a chat with your vet now rather than the week of Bonfire Night. They can talk you through the options, which may include a referral to a qualified behaviourist.
Build a safe den
Choose a quiet spot, ideally in an inner room away from windows, and make it cosy with their bed, blankets and a familiar item that smells of you. Draping a blanket over a crate or table can make it feel more enclosed. Let your dog get used to it now, so it’s already their safe place when the bangs start.
Check their microchip and ID tag
Frightened dogs can bolt. Make sure your dog’s microchip details are up to date and that they wear a collar with an ID tag, so they can be returned to you quickly if the worst happens.
Look into sound desensitisation
Sound desensitisation, where dogs slowly get used to recorded firework noises at very low volume, works best over weeks or months. It’s worth starting well ahead of next season, ideally with guidance from your vet or a behaviourist.
Keep routines steady
A predictable routine helps many dogs feel secure. If you use calming treats or other calming products, introduce them before fireworks season rather than for the first time on the night, so you know how your dog gets on with them.
On the night
- Walk them earlier. Get their walk done in daylight, before displays are likely to start, and keep them on a lead.
- Feed earlier too. A dog who has eaten and been out is more likely to settle in the evening.
- Shut out the sights and sounds. Close windows, doors and curtains before dark, and use the TV or radio to soften the bangs.
- Secure the house and garden. Check gates and fences, and keep your dog indoors when fireworks are going off. Be careful with front doors when visitors arrive.
- Let them hide. If they want to retreat to their den or under a table, let them. Don’t pull them out.
- Stay calm and close by. It’s fine to comfort your dog if they come to you. Keep your own voice and behaviour relaxed and normal.
- Never punish fearful behaviour. It only adds to their fear.
- Don’t leave them home alone on the busiest nights if you can avoid it.
- Keep them away from displays. Never take a dog to a fireworks event.
After the fireworks
Some dogs stay jumpy for a day or two afterwards. Keep things quiet and routine, and do the next day’s walks somewhere calm. Check your garden for spent firework debris before letting them out, as it can be dangerous if chewed or swallowed.
When to see your vet
Calming treats and home routines can help many dogs, but they’re not a substitute for veterinary care. Speak to your vet if your dog’s fear is severe, seems to be getting worse each year, carries on long after the fireworks stop, or if they hurt themselves trying to escape.
A calmer season with Paw Pure
Our Calming Treats for Dogs are heart-shaped soft chews made to help support calm, relaxed behaviour through life’s bigger moments, fireworks included. They come in Chicken, Duck or Beef, with 120 chews in every jar, and fit alongside our other daily chews in one simple routine.
Our first batch is on its way. Join the pack to be first in line, with 15% off your first jar.
This guide is general information for UK dog owners and isn’t a substitute for advice from your vet.