Fireworks might be dazzling and exciting for us humans, but for many dogs, they’re more like a terrifying alien invasion. The loud booms, unpredictable flashes, and all-around chaos can turn a festive night into a full-blown anxiety episode for your pup.
If your dog has ever sprinted under the couch, trembled like a leaf, or given you that panicked "Save me!" look at the first firework blast, you're not alone. Fireworks can be a real nightmare for dogs, but the good news is, there are plenty of ways to help them feel safe and secure.
In this article, we'll cover:
- Why are dogs scared of fireworks
- The impact of loud noises on canine behavior
- Six ways to keep your dog calm during fireworks
- Desensitizing your dog's fear of fireworks
Why are dogs scared of fireworks
While not all dogs are scared of fireworks, fireworks scare many because they are loud, unpredictable, and often come with bright flashes of light.
Most dogs experience a fear response to fireworks because they don’t understand what’s happening. Unlike us, dogs don’t associate fireworks with fun celebrations. Instead, they experience them as sudden, booming explosions with no warning and no clear escape route.
The unpredictable nature of fireworks makes them even scarier — your dog has no idea when the next loud noise will hit. And since their hearing is far more sensitive than ours, those blasts feel extra intense, making it easy for panic to set in.
The impact of loud noises on canine behavior
Fireworks don’t just startle dogs — they can trigger a full-on fight-or-flight response. Since dogs don’t understand what’s happening, they may react by trying to escape, shaking, barking, or even hiding under the bed until it’s all over.
Common signs your dog is stressed by fireworks:
- Shaking or trembling
- Excessive panting
- Barking or whining
- Hiding in small spaces
- Trying to run away
Loud noises like fireworks displays, thunder, and sirens can spike your dog’s anxiety, sometimes even leading to long-term anxiety. If your pup seems traumatized after fireworks, they might need extra support to feel safe.
Situational anxiety in dogs
Fireworks displays release loud booms and flashing lights, which can flood a dog’s system with stress hormones. This increase in situational anxiety can lead to destructive behavior or be dangerous to your pet's health.
Some dogs may develop long-term fear responses from firework stress, making them anxious around other loud sounds like thunder. Understanding your dog’s anxiety levels can help you take steps to keep them comfortable and remain calm.
Six ways to keep your dog calm during fireworks
Fireworks season can be stressful for both dogs and their owners. The good news? You don’t have to sit back and watch your dog suffer.
Here are six ways to help them remain calm when the fireworks start blasting.
1. Prepare for the stressful event
If you know fireworks are coming — like on Independence Day or New Year’s Eve — start preparing before the chaos begins. A few key steps to take:
- Keep your dog indoors in a safe, cozy space.
- Use white noise or calming music to help drown out the booms.
- Double-check their ID tags and microchip info in case they manage to escape.
- Give them plenty of exercise beforehand to tire them out and help reduce anxiety.
The more you prepare, the easier it’ll be for your pup to ride out the noise.
2. Try a calming spray or diffuser
Calming sprays and diffusers can be a great way to help keep your pet relaxed during fireworks. PetFriendly’s Mellow Spray and Mellow Diffuser use calming pheromones that mimic those of a mother dog to create a sense of security for your dog.
These products can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, making fireworks less overwhelming. Simply spray Mellow Spray on your dog’s bedding, toys, crate (if they are crate trained), or on your furniture. Or, place the Mellow Diffuser in their environment to provide lasting comfort.
These simple tools can make a big difference in helping your pup stay chill during fireworks.
3. Use calming wraps
Calming wraps (like thunder vests) apply gentle pressure on your dog's body to help calm them down. This pressure can help soothe anxiety and makes many dogs — especially young dogs — feel more secure during stressful situations like fireworks.
4. Create a safe haven for your dog
Fireworks are a lot less scary when your pup has a comfortable, quiet space to retreat to. Set up a designated safe zone inside your home where they can feel secure:
- A quiet room, crate, or cozy corner with their favorite blankets and toys
- White noise or calming music to muffle the firework sounds
- Their favorite treats or a food puzzle to keep them occupied
This will give them a sense of control over their environment and can help reduce stress. If your dog already struggles with separation anxiety, try to stay with them during fireworks to prevent additional stress.
5. Try other calming aids
There are other types of calming aids besides sprays and diffusers that can be a game-changer for most dogs. Some common calming aids for dogs afraid of fireworks and loud sounds include:
- Vet-approved anxiety medication
- CBD treats or supplements
- Natural calming treats and sprays
6. Stay calm
Dogs are masters at picking up on human emotions. If you’re anxious, they’ll be anxious too. Stay calm, speak to them in a soothing voice, and act normal — even if they’re freaking out.
- Offer gentle reassurance
- Engage in familiar activities, like playing or relaxing together
- Avoid reinforcing fear by acting overly sympathetic (which can make them think they should be scared)
Desensitizing your dog's fear of fireworks
If your dog has a long-term fear of fireworks, you can try desensitization training. Desensitization training for dogs is a behavior modification technique that exposes a dog to a feared stimulus (like sounds or situations) at low intensity. This allows them to become accustomed to it without reacting negatively, and eventually tolerate it.
Dogs understand that their favorite things (like treats and play time) usually mean they are in a happy place. Adding your dog's favorite activities or treats to a stressful situation may help them associate the firework fear and loud sounds with positive experiences.
Some examples of desensitization training for puppies include:
- Gradually expose them to recorded firework noises at a low volume.
- Reward them with treats and praise when they remain calm.
- Slowly increase the volume over time to help them adjust.
For extreme cases, consulting a vet or certified dog trainer can be the best way to help your pup overcome their fear.
Fireworks might be a blast for us, but they can be a stressful experience for our pets. Knowing why dogs are scared of fireworks and taking proactive steps to keep them safe can make a big difference.
Whether it’s creating a cozy safe haven, using calming products, or simply staying by their side, every effort counts in helping your dog stay calm. With the right preparation, you and your furry friend can get through firework season with a little less stress and a lot more comfort.