Fireworks might be overwhelming for some individuals, but many dogs are very scared of fireworks and discover the sound and spectacle to be terrifying. Dog fireworks anxiety can leave your pets in a panicked state.

It should go without saying that nervous dogs don’t belong at fireworks displays, but even dogs that are at home can be overwhelmed by the noise, particularly if the neighbors are setting off their own. That’s why it is so vital to aid your pet.

Dogs that are scared of fireworks might hide, tremble, pace or whine in response to the sounds, leading pet parents to consider trying pet meds to help deal with the behaviors. But there are options, including Bedtime Bones® & Eau de Bedtime.

4 Reasons Dogs are Scared of Fireworks

They are loud

Most fireworks make loud sounds. Dogs have a sharper sense of hearing than humans, so those loud booms, crackles, and whistles are alarming to dogs.

They are Unpredictable

You anticipate fireworks on festivals such as the Fourth of July, but for your dog, it’s just another day. Those firecrackers come without warning. The loud noises and flashing lights sound and look dissimilar each time. Plus, they come at different time gaps, so dogs can’t get used to them.

They pose a risk

The noise and volatility of fireworks lead some dogs to recognize them as a threat. This triggers their fight-or-flight response. Your dog may bark at the noises or else try to escape and hide. Your dog may show other signs of anxiety, like agitation, panting, pacing, and whining.

Fireworks are inescapable

Fireworks are inevitable on holidays like Independence Day. So if the noises trigger your dog’s flight response, he will try to run from the threat. Regrettably, there’s frequently nowhere to go, as you can still hear those loud booms indoors.

How to Calm and Comfort Your Dog during Fireworks

Aim to avoid them altogether

Don’t take your dog to the local fireworks show, and if fireworks are official where you live, keep your dog inside when you know fireworks will go off.

Expose your dog to loud sounds ahead of time

If you have not exposed your dog to fireworks, then an excellent technique to start is by setting your pup up for victory first. You can do this by having someone with some loud noisemakers (for example, speakers, airhorns, cowbells, whistles, to name a few) at a reasonable distance away while your dog is being entertained or else playing to get a feel for their initial reactions to these noises. 

Keep Your Dog Inside

Even if your dog spends most of his time out-of-doors, bring him inside during firework displays. It will stop him from running away when he feels scared, which can put him at risk.

Create a Safe Space

If your dog is crate-trained, make his crate available, as that’s probably already a safe space for him. If not, put him in a bathroom or other small room with music or white noise to help drown out the boom of fireworks. Bringing his bed, blankets, and toys into the room can make him feel more comfortable. This is a great time to also give your dog some Bedtime Bones and spray some Eau de Bedtime on one of those blankets or beds.

Desensitize

Begin working with your dog far enough beforehand to desensitize him to fireworks as well as other loud noises. You can begin this procedure by playing fireworks sounds on a low level while playing with your dog and offering them treats. Over time, gradually boost the sound of the fireworks during these plays sessions. Ultimately, your dog will connect the sound of fireworks with happy and fun moments.