How to keep your dog calm during fireworks season

Fireworks season can be a stressful time for dogs. While we might enjoy the colourful displays, the sudden bangs, flashes and unfamiliar sounds can leave our pets feeling frightened and unsettled.

Some dogs may hide or become restless, while others might bark, shake or stay unusually close to their owners. The good news is that there are plenty of simple things you can do to help your dog feel safer and more comfortable.

Here are some practical ways to keep your dog calm during fireworks season.

Create a safe space for your dog

Before the fireworks begin, give your dog somewhere quiet and comfortable where they can retreat if they feel nervous.

Choose a familiar area of your home and make it cosy with their favourite dog bed, blankets and toys. If your dog already has a spot they naturally go to when they want some peace, this is often the best place to start.

Close the curtains or blinds to reduce flashes from outside and consider leaving the television, radio or some gentle background noise on to help mask sudden sounds.

Most importantly, allow your dog to choose where they feel safest rather than trying to make them stay in one particular place.

Keep them entertained with toys and chews

Giving your dog something enjoyable to focus on can provide a useful distraction when fireworks are going off.

A favourite dog toy or long-lasting chew can keep them occupied, particularly if your dog is already comfortable enough to play or eat.

Interactive options such as KONG dog toys can be filled with your dog's favourite food or treats to provide longer-lasting enrichment. Durable toys such as a Nylabone may also help dogs that find chewing soothing.

Just remember that every dog reacts differently. If your pet is too anxious to play, don't force them.

Use treats to create positive associations

Food can be another useful tool during fireworks season.

If your dog hears a noise but remains relaxed, offering a small dog treat can help create a more positive association with the sound. You could also use natural dog treats or small pieces of their favourite snack during games and enrichment activities.

For dogs that enjoy chewing, suitable dog chews can provide another way to keep them occupied while things are noisy outside.

Keep portions in mind, particularly if you're giving your dog more treats than usual throughout the evening.

Walk your dog before it gets dark

Try to plan your dog's main walk earlier in the day before fireworks are likely to begin.

Even a normally confident dog can become frightened by an unexpected bang, so avoid walking during displays wherever possible. Check local events in advance and adjust your routine if you know fireworks are planned nearby.

When you do head outside, keep your dog securely on a lead and make sure their collar, tag and microchip information are up to date.

Keep your normal routine where possible

Dogs often take reassurance from familiarity, so keeping their routine as normal as possible can help.

Try to stick to their usual feeding, walking and bedtime schedule. You don't need to ignore your dog if they come to you for reassurance, either. Stay calm and interact with them in the way you normally would.

Your behaviour can help signal that they are in a safe environment.

Make sure doors and windows are secure

A frightened dog may behave differently from normal and could try to escape if startled.

Before fireworks begin, check that windows, external doors and garden gates are properly secured. If you need to let your dog into the garden, supervise them and ideally keep them on a lead while fireworks are nearby.

It's also worth checking that everyone in the household knows not to leave doors open unexpectedly.

Start preparing before fireworks night

If you know your dog struggles with fireworks, don't wait until the first bang to start preparing.

Set up their safe space in advance so they have time to become comfortable with it. You can also introduce enrichment toys beforehand, allowing your dog to associate them with something enjoyable rather than only bringing them out when they are already anxious.

If your dog's fear is severe or you're concerned about their behaviour, speak to your vet for individual advice. They can recommend appropriate ways to manage noise anxiety based on your dog's needs.

Helping your dog through fireworks season

Every dog responds to fireworks differently. Some may barely notice them, while others need extra reassurance and preparation to get through the evening comfortably.

Creating a quiet environment, planning walks carefully and having familiar toys, treats and chews ready can all make fireworks season a little easier for your pet.

Don't forget to tag us @Wundapets and share your dog's favourite chews, treats and toys with us, we'd love to see them!