Keeping your dog calm this firework season

Firework season might sparkle for us, but for our dogs it can feel far less magical. Loud bangs, flashing lights and sudden vibrations can turn an otherwise cosy evening into something unsettling. The good news is that with a little preparation and care, you can help your dog feel safe, loved and calm.

Set them up for serenity

Preparation really does make all the difference. Start by walking your dog before it gets dark so they can settle for the evening without needing to go outside once the fireworks begin.

If you can, plan to stay in with your dog. Your calm presence is often the most reassuring thing to them. Even if you're just reading or watching a film, being nearby helps them feel secure and supported. If you know you'll need to go out, consider arranging for someone they trust to stay with them so they're not alone when the noise starts.

Create a quiet, comforting space where they can retreat. Close the curtains, dim the lights and make their favourite blanket or bed the heart of their little sanctuary. The familiar scent and texture can work wonders in helping them feel safe.

In the days leading up to Bonfire Night, it can also help to introduce your dog to firework sounds. Spotify has a few playlists made up of gentle bangs and whistles to help desensitise pups. Begin at a very low volume, far from where your dog is resting (maybe even in a different room) and reward them with calm praise or a treat whenever they stay relaxed. Over time, you can slowly increase the volume. It's not a fix-all solution, but it can help to desensitise some pups and make the real thing less intimidating - it certainly helped us when trying to desensitise Dilly.

Scent can also soothe. Calming sprays such as Pet Remedy plug-ins can help your dog relax through gentle aromatherapy. A calm environment feels calmer still when it smells familiar and comforting, just be sure the ingredients are pet-safe.

When the sky lights up

When the fireworks begin, the best thing you can do is stay close and stay calm. Dogs take their emotional cues from us, so speak softly and move slowly.

Classical music can be surprisingly effective at masking the sound of fireworks. Classic FM airs a special Pet Classics programme over Bonfire Night, designed especially for soothing anxious pets. We also like lofi sounds, gentle jazz to keep things calm or turning up the tv volume to try and mask the sounds outside can also be effective.

You can also keep your dog occupied with something enriching like snuffle toys, puzzle feeders and lick mats, all of which are wonderful distractions that engage their minds while keeping them focused on something positive.

For dogs who are particularly sensitive to sound, a soft snood or thunder jacket can help to muffle the noise and create a cocoon-like feeling of comfort. It can also make them feel a little safer and more grounded when the outside world is loud. We've not tried one of these ourselves, but have heard it works wonders for some doggos.

Once the noise fades

After the fireworks stop, offer gentle reassurance. Some dogs will want cuddles, others prefer to curl up nearby and decompress quietly. Keep the lights low and the mood calm. 

Routine brings comfort. Returning to familiar habits, like dinner at the usual time or their evening toy time will remind your dog that everything is back to normal.

If your pup finds fireworks truly distressing, it may be worth speaking with a qualified behaviourist who can design a desensitisation plan tailored to them, or with a qualified vet who may be able to prescribe something to help ease their anxiety. 

Firework season is all about preparation, calm and comfort. With patience, calming music and plenty of love, even the noisiest night can feel like just another cosy evening in.

Sending you and your pups lots of love and comfort this firework season.