Fireworks Night: How to Help a Nervous Dog
For us here in the UK, Bonfire Night means sparklers and toffee apples. For many dogs, it means bangs, flashes and smells they don't understand, often for weeks either side of 5 November.
As dog walkers and home boarders, we look after a lot of dogs through fireworks season. Some don't even lift their heads but some are truly terrified and it’s a horrible thing to watch them go through. As an owner you can feel pretty helpless. There are however some things you can do. Here's what we've learned helps.
Plan your walks around the bangs
This is the single biggest change we make. In the run-up to Bonfire Night, we walk earlier in the day, while it's still light and before the fireworks start.
Get the main walk done in daylight
Keep evening toilet trips short, close to home and on the lead
Even calm dogs can bolt at a sudden bang, so keep them on a lead after dark
A frightened dog can run a long way, very fast. Check their collar and ID tag are on, the harness fits snugly, and their microchip details are up to date.
Make a safe den
Many nervous dogs want to hide, and that's fine. Let them.
Set up a cosy spot in the quietest room, ideally away from windows
A crate or table covered with a blanket makes a great den
Add their bed, a favourite toy and something that smells of you
Let them choose to go in and come out; never shut them in if they're panicking
Muffle the noise and flashes
Close curtains and blinds before it gets dark
Put the TV, radio or some calm music on to soften the bangs
Shut windows and cat flaps, and keep doors to the garden closed
Give them something to do
Chewing and sniffing are naturally calming for dogs. A long-lasting chew or a snuffle toy can give a worried dog something else to focus on.
Start it before the fireworks do, so it's a happy routine rather than a reaction to the bangs. If your dog is too stressed to eat, don't force it.
Stay calm yourself
Dogs read us closely. It's absolutely fine to comfort your dog if they come to you, and it won't "reward" the fear. Just try to stay relaxed and matter-of-fact, carry on as normally as you can, and never tell them off for being scared.
Check your local fireworks dates
Displays rarely happen on just one night. Look out for local events in your area so you can plan walks and quiet evenings around them.
When to talk to your vet
If your dog is very frightened (panting, pacing, hiding for hours, trying to escape or hurting themselves), speak to your vet well before fireworks season. They can talk you through calming products, behaviour support and medication if it's needed. The earlier you start, the more options you have.
Get ready now
A little preparation goes a long way. Plan your walk times, set up the den, and stock up on a few long-lasting chews and enrichment toys so you're ready when the first bangs start.
You'll find our favourite long-lasting chews in The Big Chew, and snuffle and enrichment toys in Paw'd Play.
Fionna & Amy, Paw'd Naturals: by dog walkers, for dog lovers.