As New Years celebrations kick off, it can be a stressful time for our dogs—and for us as owners who want to ease their discomfort. Fireworks can trigger confusion and anxiety reactions in dogs, such as barking, shaking, hiding, or becoming generally unsettled.
Why is your dog scared? Understanding the root causes of their fear is the first step to helping them.
- Sights – The flashes of fireworks, whether directly visible or seen through curtains/blinds.
- Sounds – The bangs, pops, and hisses of fireworks.
- Smells – The lingering smoke and gunpowder.
- Vibrations – Close fireworks can create physical vibrations that dogs pick up, much like thunder.
While we can’t control smells or vibrations entirely, there are steps we can take to manage sights and sounds, helping our dogs feel more secure.
Tips for Preparing and Managing Fireworks Anxiety
If you’re unsure how your dog might react—especially for puppies or recent rescues—prevention is key. These simple steps can help:
1.Don’t listen to outdated advice!
There’s a common misconception that comforting a scared dog reinforces their fear. This is not true. Science shows that speaking to your dog in a calm, soothing tone can help reassure them. It won’t make their fear worse; it will actually provide comfort.
2.Manage Their Environment
- Shut curtains or blinds to block out flashes.
- Keep lights on to minimise the effect of sudden bursts of light.
- Create a safe, quiet space, such as a covered crate or a cozy "cave" made with blankets and furniture.
3.Plan Walks and Mealtimes:
- Feed your dog earlier in the evening before the fireworks begin.
- Walk your dog well before dusk (ideally in the morning) to avoid early fireworks displays. If timing is tricky, skipping the walk is safer than risking exposure.
- For toileting trips, use a lead to prevent your dog from bolting if startled.
4. Create Comforting Distractions
- Play music or turn up the TV to help mask fireworks sounds.
- Offer a long-lasting chew or a stuffed enrichment toy to keep them occupied.
5. Limit Stressful Behaviors
Prevent pacing and barking by confining your dog to a smaller, familiar area with you.
6. Long-Term Preparation
For dogs with existing fears—or to prevent future issues—gradual exposure and positive associations can work wonders:
- Fireworks Sounds Training: Play fireworks sounds at a very low volume during mealtimes or play sessions. Gradually increase the volume over weeks, ensuring your dog remains relaxed. A great app to try is Pupstanding
- Light Training: Use disco or twinkling lights behind closed curtains to mimic the flashes, unrelated to the sounds. Once they’re comfortable with sounds and lights separately, combine the two.
- Relaxation Training: Reward your dog when they settle in a safe spot. Encourage calm behavior with treats or frozen enrichemtn toys. Practise soothing massage techniques to promote relaxation.
By following these tips, you can help your dog feel safer and more secure during fireworks season, making it easier for both of you to navigate this challenging time.