Fireworks: How Can I Help My Dog Stay Calm?

It's not unusual for a dog to be frightened when they hear fireworks. A dog's hearing is about 4 times more sensitive than humans - and they can detect much quieter sounds than we can - so any flashing lights or sounds like fireworks, even from a distance, can make them very nervous and scare them.

There are a number of signs to watch out for, indicating that your dog is scared:

• They may start to bark or whine for no apparent reason
• They might be restless or start panting and pacing around
• They often try to run away or hide somewhere
• They may start trembling or shaking
• Their ears will be flat and they may cower with their tail tucked down between their legs
• Some dogs may even soil indoors

How can I help calm my dog during fireworks?

If your dog has struggled during previous firework displays and is particularly nervous of any loud noises, you may want to speak to your vet or a qualified behaviourist on how to desensitise your dog to these sounds for the future. If you’re wondering how to calm your dog during fireworks, start with planning ahead (save our checklist and read our seasonal fireworks preparation timeline) and offering a secure environment that supports calming for dogs during fireworks.

If you haven't been able to do this in time for this year's season, there are some steps you can take to help your pooch through the upcoming celebrations. These are practical calming techniques for dogs during fireworks:

1. You can help your puppy learn about lots of different noises to help them get used to sounds and treat them as a normal part of life. As part of their training, take them to areas with different noises, such as traffic noises, and consider using sound recordings to get them used to other noises (such as fireworks, thunderstorms etc).
2. Create a safe den for them - somewhere they can retreat to when they feel anxious or worried. This can be a comfy blanket behind a chair or sofa, or in a crate that is covered with a blanket to muffle any sounds.
3. Put some favourite toys or food puzzles in their den to try and distract them.
4. Anxiety may cause your dog to drink more, so ensure they have plenty of water close by.
5. If they have retreated to a specific space on a previous occasion, use this to make their den. If they are a small breed, this could even be under a cupboard or a bed - somewhere they have chosen and makes them feel safe and comfortable.
6. Prepare their den well in advance so that they get used to it and know it is a safe place just for them, and give them treats for using it before the firework event.
7. When they are in their den, leave them alone - don't try to force them out. They will come out of their own accord when they feel safe.
8. Never force them to use a space at the last minute - it might not be enough protection for them and they may get frustrated if they cannot get to where they want to be.
9. Don't restrict their movement around the house - let them explore and find an area that will make them feel calmer. If you try to keep them in one area, they may hurt themselves, or others, while trying to get out.
10. Walk early - Make sure your pooch has plenty of exercise well in advance of a firework display. Avoid taking your dog out when the fireworks are going off, but should the fireworks start early, make sure to keep them on their leash to avoid them bolting in fright.
11. Similarly, start feeding them a little earlier so that they get used to a slightly different routine and can settle in advance of the firework display.
12. Soundproof your house by closing all windows, doors and curtains.
13. Turn the TV/Radio volume up a little more than normal (not too loud though, as this could scare them too!). Alternatively, studies have shown that music can be therapeutic for dogs, so tuning into their favourite playlist may help to keep them calm. Take a look at our Calming Music for Dogs Playlist on YouTube for 15 hours of relaxing sounds.
14. Always keep them indoors during the firework display. If they go outside, the noise will be even louder and this will spook them even more. Only let them outside to go to the toilet when you are confident the fireworks are over. If your pooch needs to go outside, make sure that your garden is escape-proof and leave the door open so they can return indoors quickly if they get spooked. Check that your dog's microchip is up to date and their ID tag has the correct details.
15. Keep your own reactions to a minimum - they will pick up on your body language and if you show signs that you might also be scared, this will reflect on them.
16. Never punish them for showing signs of fear, but if they allow it and it's helpful to them, give them some comfort and sit with them during the display, reassuring them all the time. Learn more about understanding your dogs body language during fireworks in this blog.

Watch these top Tips from Our Expert Behaviourist:

You will learn:

• Why some pets hide, pace, or panic during fireworks
• The role of pain, age, and noise sensitivity in stress
• How to prevent fear in puppies and kittens early on
• Practical steps to keep pets calm and safe at home
• Long-term solutions and treatment options

Should I comfort my dog during fireworks or ignore them?

Comforting your dog is recommended if it helps them. Gentle reassurance, sitting nearby, and using their safe den are effective calming techniques for dogs during fireworks. Avoid punishment or forcing them out of their chosen safe space.

Are there home remedies to soothe a dog scared of fireworks?

Home-based supports include creating a quiet den, playing soothing music, offering long-lasting chews or food puzzles, using gentle pressure garments, and maintaining a calm routine. These are simple ways of calming for dogs during fireworks at home. Practicing how to calm your dog during fireworks ahead of time - through positive associations with their den and recorded sounds - can make a big difference.

Can calming treats help my dog during fireworks?

Some dogs benefit from calming treats or chews given before the display; always follow product guidance and consult your vet if your dog is very anxious or on medication. Calming treats can be part of a broader plan that includes environmental management and other calming techniques for dogs during fireworks.

WHAT CAN I GIVE MY DOG FOR FIREWORKS ANXIETY?

It helps to pair ADAPTIL with other positive techniques and solutions, like a ThunderShirt, to really help your dog stay calm around fireworks, there are various options:

• Wrap your dog with love in a ThunderShirt- ThunderShirt provides gentle, calming pressure around your dog's torso, much like swaddling a baby. This is proven to help soothe their anxiety when fireworks are happening.

• You can plug an ADAPTIL Calm Home diffuser in the room where your dog's den is.
• You can place ADAPTIL Calm Collar on your dog at least the day before the expected fireworks.
• ADAPTIL Chews are fast acting and can be given 30 minutes before a known fireworks event.

ADAPTIL is clinically proven to help reduce signs of fear such as trembling and hiding by 93% in dogs _{1, 2} and is also proven to reassure and help puppies learn ₃.

Remember, always praise and reward your dog if they remain calm during a firework display; this will help by giving them a positive association the next time. If you’re still unsure how to calm your dog during fireworks, read our full guide on What Can I Give My Dog For Fireworks Anxiety.

For the long term, requesting help from a behaviourist will help you put practices in place for the next fireworks season. For extreme fear, please consult your vet for tailored advice on calming for dogs during fireworks and long-term desensitisation.

Follow our advice for fireworks fears and you will be better able to support your dog should they get stressed. Check out our other informative and helpful blogs on this topic. Or sign up to our newsletter to stay up to date with all the latest ADAPTIL guides and info!

1) Evaluation of dog appeasing pheromone (D.A.P.) as a potential treatment for dogs fearful of fireworks. Sheppard G, Mills D S Veterinary Record, 2003; 152, 432-436.

2) Effect of Dog Appeasing Pheromone Collar (DAP) on a Model of Sound-Induced Fear and Anxiety. Landsberg G, Beck A, Araujo JA, Milgram N. Proceedings of the 9th International Veterinary Behaviour Meeting, Lisbon, Portugal, 2013, 45-46.

3) Effects of dog appeasing pheromone (D.A.P.) on anxiety and fear in puppies during training and on long-term socialisation. Denenberg S, Landsberg G M Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 2008; 233, 1874-1882.