Keeping Your Dog Calm During Bonfire Night Fireworks

Top 3 Ways to Keep Your Dog Calm During Fireworks on Bonfire Night

Bonfire Night is stressful for many dogs, with loud fireworks causing fear and anxiety. Nearly half of UK dogs show signs of stress when fireworks go off, leading to panting, whining, and even escape attempts.

If your dog is scared of fireworks, here are Bonnie Woof's top three tips to help them stay calm and comfortable.

1. Create a Safe Space for Your Dog

Prepare a cozy, quiet area where your dog can feel safe during the fireworks. It could be their favourite room or a covered crate with familiar bedding and toys. Dimming the lights and closing curtains will help block out flashes of light. Playing white noise or calming music can mask the sound of fireworks, helping reduce their anxiety.

Many owners find success with soundproofed dog dens or rooms specifically designed for noisy nights.

2. Use Calming Aids and Techniques

There are several products available, like calming sprays, anxiety wraps, and pheromone diffusers, that can help ease your dog’s stress. Speak to your vet about calming supplements or prescription solutions if your dog has severe noise anxiety.

In the days leading up to Bonfire Night, you could also try desensitising your dog with sound therapy by playing firework noises at a low volume and gradually increasing it. This certainly helped Willow and Lucky get used to the sounds in a controlled way.

3. Plan Walks and Meals Strategically

Walk your dog early in the evening, well before the fireworks start, to prevent panic-induced escapes. Make sure they are microchipped and have a collar (a Bonnie Woof collar, of course!) with up-to-date ID tags in case they get scared and run away. Feed them before the noise begins—an anxious dog is less likely to eat once fireworks are in full swing.

It’s vital to secure your home and garden, as frightened dogs may try to escape to find safety.

Bonus Tip: Stay Calm Yourself!

Dogs pick up on their owner’s emotions, so staying calm and acting normally is essential. Don’t scold or overly comfort your dog, as this may reinforce their fear. Instead, distract them with play or treats if they are responsive.

By preparing in advance, you can help your dog feel safe and secure this Bonfire Night and reduce their anxiety during fireworks.

With these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to calm your dog and make Bonfire Night a little easier for both of you. For more detailed guidance, organisations like Dogs Trust offer excellent resources on managing firework anxiety in dogs.