Bonfire Night can be magical for us, but worrying for them đź’›
As the nights draw in and the sky lights up with colour, Bonfire Night and firework season bring excitement for many of us — but for our dogs, it can be a completely different experience.
Loud bangs, flashing lights, and unfamiliar smells can turn an evening of celebration into a stressful, anxious time for our four-legged friends.
Understanding how fireworks affect dogs — and how to help them feel calm and secure — can make all the difference to their wellbeing.
Why Dogs Struggle with Fireworks
Dogs hear around four times better than humans and can pick up sounds we don’t even notice. That means every pop, whistle, and crackle is magnified — often sounding unpredictable and alarming. Add the smell of smoke and bright flashes through the window, and it’s easy to see why many dogs find fireworks overwhelming.
Anxious behaviours might include panting, pacing, whining, shaking, hiding, or trying to escape. Even dogs who seem confident can become distressed, so it’s best to plan ahead and help them feel safe before the noise begins.
Create a Safe, Quiet Space
Before firework season starts, set up a calm and cosy area for your dog to retreat to. This could be a corner of the living room, a crate covered with a blanket, or a quiet room away from windows and doors.
Add their favourite bed, toys, and a piece of your clothing so it smells familiar. Close curtains and play gentle background sounds — such as soft music or the TV — to help mask the noise outside.
If your dog chooses to hide, let them. Don’t force them out or over-comfort them — simply stay nearby and reassure them with calm body language and a soft tone of voice.
Stick to a Normal Routine
Dogs thrive on consistency. Try to keep feeding and walking times the same, even during firework season. Take your dog for a walk before it gets dark, ideally before fireworks begin, and make sure their collar, harness, and lead are secure in case of any sudden fright.
Avoid taking your dog out during fireworks, and ensure your garden is secure if they need to go outside. Keep doors and windows securely closed to help muffle outside noise and prevent any unexpected escapes. Closing curtains or blinds will also help reduce the flashes of light from fireworks.
Distract and Soothe
During noisy evenings, offer your dog long-lasting chews, treat puzzles, or lick mats to help distract them. These activities release endorphins, which can help them relax naturally. Playing gentle music or leaving the television on can also help drown out unpredictable sounds.
If your dog needs a little extra support, consider using a natural pheromone diffuser around 30 days before firework season begins. These diffusers release calming scents that can help promote relaxation and reduce tension. Remember, every dog is unique — what works well for one may not have the same effect for another.
Your calm presence is just as important. Dogs take emotional cues from their owners, so staying relaxed, positive, and patient can go a long way in helping them feel safe.
Support from the Inside Out
Just as emotional calm matters, physical comfort plays an important role in helping dogs feel settled. Stiffness or discomfort can make anxiety worse — so ensuring your dog feels comfortable and mobile all year round is key.
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Cortaflex® Canine supports joint comfort and flexibility, helping dogs stay active and at ease even in colder months.
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Canine Inflamex Solution provides targeted nutritional support for hard-working or ageing joints.
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Omega Oil promotes healthy skin, coat condition, and overall wellbeing, supporting your dog through seasonal changes.
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Frequent grooming helps maintain healthy skin, which can sometimes become dry or irritated when dogs spend more time indoors.
Together, these products help your dog feel comfortable from the inside out — so they can face life’s noisy moments with confidence.
After the Fireworks
Once the celebrations are over, spend some quiet time with your dog. Offer gentle reassurance, a calm walk the next morning, and plenty of praise for coping well. If your dog finds fireworks extremely stressful year after year, it’s worth discussing long-term management strategies with your vet or a canine behaviourist.
In Summary
Firework season can be daunting for dogs, but with preparation, patience, and the right support, you can make it much easier for them.
Create a safe space, maintain a routine, stay calm — and support their comfort with quality nutrition and joint care.
Because a calm, comfortable dog is a happy dog — all year round 💛
