How to Calm a Dog Scared of Fireworks: Top Tips for Bonfire Night 2025

Published: 20 October 2025

Fireworks season is upon us in the UK, with Diwali kicking things off this week, followed by Halloween and Bonfire Night on 5 November. While the bangs and flashes are thrilling for us, they can be utterly terrifying for our canine companions. According to recent surveys, around 60% of UK dog owners report their pets showing signs of distress during fireworks – that's millions of pups pacing, whining, or trying to hide.

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Searches for "how to calm a dog from fireworks" spike by over 350% in October, proving just how common this worry is.

If your dog is scared of fireworks, you're not alone. This guide shares expert-backed ways to help your furry friend stay calm, from desensitisation techniques to quick fixes for Bonfire Night. Whether it's their first fireworks fright or an annual ordeal, these steps can reduce anxiety and keep your dog safe. Let's dive in.

Why Are Dogs So Scared of Fireworks?Dogs' hearing is far more sensitive than ours – they can detect sounds up to four times farther away and at higher frequencies.

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The unpredictable booms, flashing lights, and even the smell of gunpowder trigger a fight-or-flight response, often leading to noise phobia. Breeds like Border Collies, Jack Russells, and Corgis may be more prone, but any dog can be affected

Common signs of firework anxiety in dogs include:

Trembling, shaking, or panting excessively

Whining, barking, or howling

Hiding, pacing, or trying to escape

Clinginess or destructive behaviour

Drooling, lip-licking, or sudden toileting indoors

Spotting these early? It's time to act. Untreated anxiety can worsen over time, even leading to generalised fears of other loud noises like thunderstorms.

Preparing Your Dog for Fireworks Season: Start Now

With Bonfire Night just weeks away, preparation is key. UK searches for "dog scared of fireworks desensitisation" are rising – here's how to get ahead.

1. Desensitise to Firework Noises

Begin counter-conditioning: Play low-volume recordings of fireworks (free on YouTube or apps like Sounds Scary from Dogs Trust) while your dog is relaxed. Pair the sounds with treats, play, or meals to create positive associations.

Start weeks in advance – gradually increase volume over sessions. Aim for 5-10 minutes daily. This works for 70% of dogs, reducing fear significantly.

2. Create a Safe DenBuild a "firework den" in a quiet room: a crate or corner with blankets, your unwashed jumper for scent comfort, and toys. Introduce it now so it's familiar. Close interior doors to block sound travel, and ensure it's escape-proof.

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3. Update ID and MicrochipFireworks cause thousands of pets to bolt annually. Check your dog's microchip (mandatory in the UK) and ID tags are current. Add a breakaway collar with your phone number.

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4. Consult Your Vet EarlyFor severe cases, vets can prescribe anti-anxiety meds like Sileo (applied to gums, works in 30 minutes) or discuss supplements.

Pheromone diffusers like Adaptil are vet-recommended and effective for many.

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During Fireworks: 7 Ways to Keep Your Dog Calm

When the bangs start, stay composed – dogs mirror our stress. Act normal to show everything's fine.

1. Stay Home and Be Present

Don't leave your dog alone; your calm presence reassures them. Cuddle if they seek it, but avoid excessive fussing during peak fear – it might reinforce anxiety. Instead, reward calm moments with quiet praise.

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2. Block Noise and Lights

Close all windows, doors, and curtains to muffle booms and hide flashes. Shut interior doors too, to prevent sounds echoing through the house. This simple step reduces noise by up to 50%.

3. Use Background NoiseTurn on the TV, radio, or calming music at moderate volume to drown out fireworks. Classical playlists like Classic FM's Pet Classics or bass-heavy tracks work best – searches for "calming music for dogs fireworks" soar this month.

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White noise machines or apps are brilliant alternatives.

4. Distract with Activities

Tire them out with a long daytime walk (before dusk), then offer puzzle toys, a stuffed Kong, or chew treats in their den. Mental stimulation diverts focus – but don't force play if they're too stressed.

Try Calming Aids ?

( mixed reviews)

Anxiety wraps like ThunderShirts: Gentle pressure soothes like a hug (79% effective in studies).

Pheromone products: Plug in Adaptil diffusers weeks ahead.

Supplements: Vet-approved options like Zylkene (milk-derived calming protein) kick in quickly.

6. Comfort Thoughtfully

If trembling or barking, a light hand on their back can help if they lean in – but don't pet frantically, as it may signal "good job being scared." Redirect with a toy instead. Never punish fear; it worsens anxiety.

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7. Exercise Caution OutdoorsToilet breaks? Go early or late, on a lead, in quiet spots. Skip fireworks displays entirely – even "chill" dogs can panic.

After Fireworks: Help Them Recover

Once quiet returns, resume routines to rebuild security. A gentle leashed walk can burn off adrenaline. Watch for lingering signs like refusal to eat – if persistent, see your vet. Start desensitisation again post-season for next year.

For ongoing noise phobia, book a behaviourist via the RSPCA or Blue Cross.

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Long-Term Strategies to Banish Firework FearBreed-Specific Tips:

Sensitive breeds? Extra early socialisation helps.

Year-Round Training: Use apps for thunderstorm sounds too.

Advocacy: Support quieter fireworks – write to your MP via Dogs Trust.

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Fireworks anxiety affects up to half of UK dogs, but with these steps, you can make Bonfire Night bearable.

Your calm, prepared approach shows love – and that's the best comfort.

Got a fireworks survival story? Share in the comments! For tailored advice, chat with your vet. Stay safe this season.