My Dog Is Scared Of Fireworks - Help!
At the time of writing this guide, it is early October, the leaves are falling from the trees and there’s a slight chill in the air. It’s this time of year that we start thinking about a number of big events coming up, one of those being Bonfire Night. Whilst many of us look forward to hotdogs and toffee apples, chilly nights around the Bonfire and celebrations, many more of us will be approaching this time with apprehension, knowing that firework season is nearly upon us and the impact that this might have or does have on our dog(s). It’s not just one night anymore either, fireworks seem to occur for a number of weeks around the end of November, as well as around New Year’s Eve and for dogs who find fireworks distressing, this can be a worrying time.
For many dogs, fireworks are a source of intense fear and anxiety. If your dog trembles, hides or shows signs of distress during fireworks, you’re not alone. Many dog owners face this challenge, but there are steps you can take to help your dog feel more comfortable at home. Let’s look at this in more detail together.
Why are dogs scared of fireworks?
Fireworks can easily trigger fear in dogs due to their intense sound, sudden flashes of light and unpredictable nature. Here are a few reasons why these celebrations can be particularly distressing:
Dogs in pain:
Did you know that dogs who are suffering from medical conditions or are in pain can be far more noise sensitive than those who are not? This is because their central nervous system is already firing off around their body and the sound of fireworks causing them to suddenly stiffen their body with shock, putting extra stress on muscles or joints already inflamed, can cause them even more pain. So for these dogs, fireworks physically cause them additional physical pain; it actually hurts them.
Genetics:
Some dogs are genetically hardwired to be sensitive to noises, particularly loud sudden noises.
Sensitive Hearing:
Dogs have extremely sensitive hearing, which means fireworks are much louder to them than they are to us. What might sound like a loud bang to you can be unbearably intense for your dog. There are some studies that suggest that that some dogs may have a lower auditory pain threshold than others, which suggests that these dogs find loud noises uncomfortable and/or painful. Not only this, there are some suggestions that fireworks might produce a smell that dogs can be sensitive to or, at least, a smell that they become sensitive to because they pair the smell with the scary experience.
Unpredictability:
Unlike thunderstorms, which have warning signs such as changes in air pressure (which dogs can detect), darkening skies and the sound of rain, fireworks are usually sudden and unexpected. The randomness of the loud noises makes it difficult for dogs to adjust.
Lack of Control:
Dogs are hard wired to try to escape or avoid frightening situations. When fireworks start, the loud noise surrounds them and they often have nowhere to go, which can lead to panic.
Inappropriate Exposure:
I have seen some people take dogs to Bonfire Night celebrations and completely overlook that their dog is quite visibly scared of the fireworks. Some people hold firework parties at home which puts their dog in close contact with the sounds, sights and scents that come with fireworks. Some dogs can develop a fear of fireworks purely as a result of inappropriate exposure and feeling that they cannot escape the situation, making it harder for them to cope the next time round.
Dogs Already Stressed:
If you have a dog who suffers from anxiety, fear or stress in other areas of their life, they are less likely to cope well with additional stressful experiences given that their cortisol (stress) levels will already be elevated. In fact, some studies suggest that dogs with higher cortisol levels found in their hair have a higher prevalence of hiding, running away or seeking the comfort of their humans when exposed to fireworks.
Signs that your dog is afraid of fireworks
All dogs are different and understanding how your own dog(s) reacts to fireworks can help you support them better. Common signs of fear include:
- Trembling or shaking
- Pacing or restlessness
- Panting excessively
- Whining or barking
- Hiding or seeking out a place they perceive as safe
- Attempts to escape, such as digging at doors or trying to bolt
- Drooling excessively and/or toileting unexpectedly
Recognising these signs early on can allow you to intervene and help calm your dog before their anxiety escalates.
How to help your dog cope with fireworks
Training your dog to cope with fireworks should start early, at least a year before the fireworks start! Noise desensitisation can take time with dogs and it is always a good idea to contact a professional to help you train your dog to cope with fireworks early on. Ideally, we teach our puppies to learn to cope with loud sudden noises before the age of 16 weeks. However, if you’re reading this close to Bonfire Night, or even New Year’s Eve, then the good news is that there are some effective strategies you can do to help ease your dog’s fear of fireworks.
Plan ahead
Fireworks events like Bonfire Night or New Year’s Eve can be anticipated, allowing you to prepare in advance. Here are some steps to take on the day and/or around the time that you are most likely going to experience fireworks:
Exercise Your Dog Early: Give your dog plenty of physical and mental exercise earlier in the day. A tired dog is often calmer and may be less reactive to the noise. You do not want to be walking your dog at night when fireworks are more likely to be let off.
Feed Them Early: Provide your dog with a meal before the fireworks start. An anxious dog may not eat once the loud noises begin.
Keep Them Indoors: Ensure your dog is indoors well before the fireworks start and secure doors and windows to prevent escapes in case they panic. If they have to toilet in the garden before the fireworks are likely to stop, make sure you do this on lead and ensure they also have a tag on their collar/harness in case they bolt. If you do let them out off lead before the bangs have subsided, please ensure that your gardens are fully secure.
Create a safe space
Provide a quiet, comfortable space where your dog can go if they’re feeling anxious. This could be a room with fewer windows or an area where they feel secure, such as a crate or little den area. Add some of their favourite toys or bedding to make it as comforting as possible. Sometimes a hot water bottle or heated children’s toy can help comfort some dogs, although I would only use these if they are a) not too hot and b) you dog isn’t likely to try and chew them. Allow your dog to choose their safe space without forcing them, it’s there if they feel they need it.
Yes! You can comfort your dog!
You are your dog’s safe person. You are their provider of everything and their security. That includes helping them feel safe from danger. If they need you to reassure them and if they need you to comfort them, absolutely do it! Will it ‘reinforce’ their fear of fireworks? Absolutely not. Much like comforting a child when they are scared, you are simply helping your dog feel safer when something scary is happening around them. Go ahead, cuddle your dog and reassure them with a calm and soothing voice, but only if they want to.
Muffle the noise
To reduce the impact of loud fireworks, some of which are incredibly deafening, try to muffle the noise indoors as much as possible. Close the windows and curtains and consider play something in the background. White or brown noise tends to be really useful (a fan for example). Taiko drumming is said to help dogs with noise sensitivity if you play it on a loop, however I suggest you get your dog used to this before Bonfire Night. These sounds can help drown out the intensity of the fireworks. Some people turn their tv up or play classical music loudly to help drown out the sound of the bangs. Whilst I don’t think either of these are a particular problem, it does depend on what is playing on either of these, given that it might not be overly soothing for your dog itself. Some classical music is in fact quite intense in sound, as are some TV programmes! I would opt for a background noise that is a little more consistent and steady sounding.
Use calming aids
There are various calming aids available that may help your dog relax. Some of these include:
Natural herbal supplements to help calm dogs (available from multiple sites). These probably need building up in your dog’s system for a period of time before a stressful event.
Pheromone diffusers such as Adaptil plug-ins or spray.
Thundershirts or a calming wrap.
Medication from your Veterinarian if your dog’s anxiety is severe
Stay calm
It is distressing seeing your dog in fear. Dogs are sensitive to our emotions. If you become visibly stressed or anxious when fireworks start, your dog is likely to pick up on it and feel even more uneasy. Stay calm and try to go about your normal routine.
Distract your dog
If your dog isn’t too anxious and still able to concentrate, providing a distraction can help take their mind off the fireworks. Engage them in a favourite game, offer them a long lasting chew or frozen Kong for dinner or train with them during the evening. High-value treats can also be a good way to distract them if they are willing to eat. If they are not willing to eat or engage with you then it is likely that they are in fight or flight mode. In which case, make sure the above suggestions are in place for them. If they are able to eat still, giving them a really tasty treat every single time a bang goes off can be a great way to help change how they feel about it.
Do not leave them home alone!
This one should speak for itself. If your dog is scared of fireworks, don’t leave them home alone. Be their comfort and security.
Ensure their microchip details are up-to-date
If the worst happens and your dog bolts and escapes, please make sure that they are microchipped and that the details are up-to-date so that they can be easily reunited with you. As of April 2016, microchipping your dog is a legal requirement.
Avoid punishment
It’s important not to tell your dog off for showing signs of fear, trying to hide or perhaps toileting indoors during fireworks. Punishment can make their anxiety so much worse and can damage your relationship with them. Instead, offer reassurance and provide comfort in a way that feels safe for them.
Desensitisation training
Firework desensitisation training needs to start well in advance of firework season. Ideally, at least a year in advance (or just after the last one). Consult a professional dog trainer for a personalised plan if your dog has experienced a really difficult time. Noise desensitisation work should take on a number of different elements and having a professional guide you through these is always best. One thing you can try at home however:
Play recordings of fireworks at a very low volume while giving your dog treats or engaging in activities they enjoy such as tuggy play. Gradually increase the volume over time, pairing the sounds with positive experiences. This approach can help your dog learn that fireworks aren’t something to worry about or pay much attention to. If your dog is particularly worried by fireworks, start with other kinds of sounds and work up to fireworks. I often find that pairing noises with play is particularly powerful for noise desensitisation, although this will take time.
When to seek professional help
If your dog’s fear of fireworks is extreme and nothing seems to help, it may be time to consult a professional. In the first instance and if the firework season is continuing, consult your Veterinarian for professional medical help. Next, consult a professional behaviourist or dog trainer for personalised advice and support.
Fireworks are a challenging experience for many, many dogs. With a little preparation and patience you can make these events less stressful for your dog. Remember, every dog is different; what works for one may not work for another. By getting to know the signs that your dog displays as to whether they are comfortable or not, you’ll be able to start to help them cope during this time.
If you're looking for personalised help or more tips, please do get in touch for support. Head to the Book Now button to get in touch with me for a no-obligation chat.
