How to Support a Dog Nervous of Fireworks this Bonfire Night

Last Updated: 30 September 2026
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Imagine this: your dog, ears pinned back, eyes wide, pacing nervously, hiding in a corner as the air fills with loud bangs, ground tremors, flashing lights, and unpredictable crackles. It’s Bonfire Night—an evening of celebration for humans, but a nightmare for many dogs. What you experience as dazzling fireworks, they endure as an onslaught of terrifying, unfamiliar sounds.

Author: Caroline Spencer

Edited By: Anna Bain

Caroline Spencer is a canine behaviourist, author, and ProDog’s resident expert on feeding-related behaviour, from fussy eating to resource guarding.

How to Support a Dog Nervous of Fireworks this Bonfire Night

Contents

Blog in 60 Seconds
Why Are Dogs Afraid of Fireworks?
Signs your dog is anxious or scared
Preparing your dog before bonfire night
- Acclimatising and desensitising at home with firework sounds
Nutrition as one of the foundations to calm nervous system
My Favourite Tools and Techniques for Helping Dogs Remain Calm Around Fireworks
Last-minute firework prep: How to soothe your anxious dog
Comforting techniques
Post-fireworks care
A final thought
References

Blog in 60 Seconds

In this guide, you will learn:

Why fireworks feel so threatening to dogs, from sharper hearing to unpredictable bangs and ground tremors, and why a vet health check is a useful first step
How to spot the obvious and the quieter signs of firework stress, from pacing and panting to yawning and lip licking
How to prepare before Bonfire Night with gradual sound desensitisation, scent games, a walk before dusk and a cosy safe space
How nutrition supports a calm nervous system, including magnesium, L-tryptophan, omega-3s and B-vitamins, and why diet changes work best well ahead of the night
What helps on the night itself, from blocking out noise and calming music to licking, chewing and comforting touch, plus how to care for your dog once the fireworks end

Fireworks anxiety is a real struggle for countless dogs, and the impact can be overwhelming if they aren’t properly prepared. But the good news is, with the right steps, you can help your dog stay calm and secure throughout the night.

In this blog, canine behaviourist Caroline Spencer will guide you through essential tips to help reduce your dog’s stress this Bonfire Night. With decades of experience in supporting dogs through challenging situations, Caroline’s compassionate, practical advice can make all the difference for your dog’s well-being during firework season. Let’s dive into her expert recommendations!

“Fear of fireworks is not just the volume and unfamiliar sound that’s the issue—it’s the unpredictability and the tremor through the ground. Many dogs thrive on routine and predictability. Fireworks, with their random booms and crackles, completely disrupt their feeling of safety.”

Why Are Dogs Afraid of Fireworks?

Dogs are naturally more sensitive to sounds than we are. Their hearing is far more acute, which means those loud, sudden noises are magnified. It’s no wonder they feel alarmed by fireworks.

If your dog is sound sensitive it is worth taking them for a health check at the vets, sound sensitivity goes hand in hand with pain, so before you consider anything else it’s good to find out whether this is contributing to their fear.

Physiologically, when a dog hears a firework, their body can go into full fight-or-flight mode. The adrenal glands release stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which prepare the body for what it perceives as a threat. Heart rate spikes, muscles tense, and the digestive system may even shut down temporarily. This surge in stress heightens anxiety, leaving your dog feeling trapped in a confusing situation. They’re unable to cope naturally, as the world around them clashes with their instinctive behaviors designed to keep them safe.

Fireworks aren’t just a loud inconvenience; they’re perceived as a real danger by many dogs. This fear taps into their instinct to survive—loud, sudden noises often signal a threat in the wild, and while your dog isn’t in immediate physical danger, their brain and body don’t know that. The more we understand how this works, the better equipped we are to help them feel secure.

Their instinct tells them to run, to create distance from anything that alarms them and causes stress. But in our world, they can’t always do that. That’s where we need to step in—to be their safe space and provide the support they need.

Signs your dog is anxious or scared

Some dogs demonstrate their fear in obvious ways, but for others, the signs can be more subtle. It’s important to recognise both the obvious and the quieter cues of anxiety:

Pacing or Restlessness – Constantly moving around, unable to settle.
Trembling or Shaking– This is often seen in more severe cases of fear.
Panting – Even when it’s not hot, panting can be a clear sign of stress.
Fleeing and Hiding – Retreating to a quiet, dark space is a common coping mechanism. Running away during walks is another form of this behavior.
Barking or Whining – Some dogs vocalise their fear, trying to communicate their discomfort.
Pinned Back Ears or Tail Tucked Between Legs – Subtle body language changes that show fear or unease.
Yawning or Licking Lips – These are more subtle signs that can easily be overlooked.
Refusing to Eat or Take Treats – Stress can suppress appetite, even in dogs that love food.
Clinginess – Seeking constant reassurance from you by staying unusually close.
Hair loss – Stressed dogs can shed copious amount of hair
Recognising these signs early gives you the chance to step in and help your dog before their anxiety escalates but if you already know your dog becomes anxious around fireworks then there are some ways to get out ahead of things and prepare them.

Preparing your dog before bonfire night

Preparation is absolutely key when it comes to helping your dog cope with fireworks. The more you can do in advance, the better chance your dog has of staying calm when the bangs begin. Here’s how I recommend getting started:

1.Desensitising your dog to loud noises: Building resilience

One of the most effective ways to help your dog overcome their fear of fireworks—and other loud noises—is through gradual acclimatisation and desensitisation. This is a process of slowly introducing your dog to sounds in a controlled manner, allowing them to build resilience without becoming overwhelmed.

It’s not just fireworks you need to be mindful of. Once your dog develops a fear of one sound, it can snowball into fear of many others. That’s why working on a variety of noises they might encounter is vital. Everyday sounds like traffic, door slams, and even the whirring of household appliances can trigger anxiety in a dog that’s already sensitive to noise. The more environments you expose them to, with you calmly by their side, the better they’ll learn to cope with the unexpected.

Start by creating distance and support

If you’ve got a young dog or one that’s already a bit wary of sounds, it’s crucial to start by paying attention to their body language when they’re startled. The first step is increasing the distance between your dog and the source of the noise. Whether you’re on a walk or at home, the key is to help them retreat to a space where they can feel safe and reassess their environment without feeling overwhelmed.

Move away from the noise until you see signs of relaxation—softened eyes, looser body posture, and even an interest in sniffing around. This signals that your dog is starting to calm down, and it’s important that they know you’re right there as a steadying presence.

Incorporate treats and licking to further calm

When your dog begins to settle after the initial fright, you can help reinforce their calmness by encouraging natural calming behaviours, like foraging or licking. If you’re outside, sprinkle some tiny treats in the grass and let them search for them. Indoors, a licking board or mat can do wonders—licking reduces a dog’s heart rate and adrenaline.

Helping them focus on a soothing activity can prime them to handle any other disturbances that may come their way. This simple routine will not only calm them in the moment but also teach them a healthy coping mechanism for future noises.

Acclimatisation and desensitisation is a process—it’s about patience, consistency, and understanding. With your guidance and support, your dog can learn to navigate loud noises with greater confidence, whether it’s fireworks, a slammed door, or a sudden clap of thunder.

Acclimatising and desensitising at home with firework sounds

If you’re working on acclimatising or desensitising your dog to the sound of fireworks, using recordings can be helpful—but start slow. Begin by playing the sounds at a very low volume, just enough for your dog to hear without reacting. Gradually increase the volume over time, always being mindful of their stress levels. If at any point they become uneasy, walk your dog away from the recording and give them time to relax in another room with you before proceeding again.

It’s worth noting that the actual fireworks experience involves more than just sound, there’s a physical element to it too. The ground trembles with each explosion, which can add another layer of stress. So, even if your dog becomes accustomed to the recorded sounds, the real event may still be a challenge. Always be prepared to act as their anchor in these situations, moving them away from the source of their discomfort and offering the same support and calming activities to help them through.

2. Pre-firework activities: setting your dog up for success

Preparing your dog during the daytime hours before fireworks start can significantly reduce their stress and anxiety. One of the best strategies is to ensure your dog is both physically and mentally prepared before the noise begins. Here’s how you can set them up for a calmer evening:

Prepare them with a balanced approach

While physical exercise is important, engaging your dog’s brain is even more effective at calming them. Instead of focusing on extreme physical exercise, which only tires the body, incorporate activities that also challenge the mind. A gentle walk, a thoughtful play session in the garden such as scent work are excellent ways to prepare the mind and body.

Scent games for dogs, in particular, are powerful because sniffing lowers their heart rate and helps them enter a more mentally relaxed state. Remember that a physically tired sensitive dog will react to a fear trigger if they’re not in the right mindset. Your role as their safe space and the calm influence that is crucial in helping them cope.

Time the walk before dusk

To avoid any unexpected scares, it’s best to take your dog for a walk before dusk. If your dog is nervous or prone to bolting at sudden noises, make sure they’re on a lead or a long line. This will give them a sense of freedom while still keeping them safe. Alternatively, you can allow them to have some outdoor time in the garden, where they’ll feel more secure. If you live in an area where local fireworks displays are common, ask your neighbours if they know when and where the fireworks might be set off.

Meet their needs during the day

Ensure all your dog’s needs are met well before the fireworks start. Incorporate scent work during their walk or at home, as it’s a great way to help them feel calm and reduce their heart rate. A dog in a calm, balanced state will be better equipped to cope with stressors like fireworks.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to feed your dog before dark. This ensures they’re not hungry and helps them settle down more easily as the evening progresses.

3. Creating a safe space

It’s essential to create a space where your dog feels safe and secure during fireworks. This could be a crate (with the door left open so they can come and go as they please) or a quiet corner of the house, ideally covered with blankets to help muffle the sounds. If your dog already enjoys their crate, it can serve as the perfect retreat during noisy events.

Make the space as cosy and inviting as possible. A well-padded bed, ideally memory foam, can help absorb vibrations from the ground, reducing the impact of loud booms. Add their favourite blanket, toys, and even an old T-shirt that carries your scent to make it feel familiar and comforting. The goal is to create a den-like environment where they can escape from the noise and feel protected.

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Nutrition as one of the foundations to calm nervous system

When it comes to supporting your dog during firework season, nutrition plays a key role in calming their nervous system. A fresh, natural diet is foundational in helping reduce stress. Kibble and processed foods often contain inappropriate ingredients, including starches and sugars, that can fuel anxiety. These ingredients disrupt your dog’s gut and, in turn, their mood. By switching to biologically appropriate, raw dog food, rich in natural nutrients, you can help your dog manage stress more effectively.

A nutrient-rich diet can help support anxiety in dogs, the following list is just some of the key nutrients that help to reduce anxiety and promote calm behaviour:

Magnesium supports nerve function and reduces stress. Found in foods such as pumpkin seeds, oats, spinach, chard, muscle meats.

L-Tryptophan is a precursor to serotonin, which helps regulate mood and behaviour. Found in foods such as turkey, chicken, eggs, salmon, cod.

Omega-3 fatty acids boost brain health and reduce inflammation, which helps with anxiety. Found in fish oil (sardines, salmon), chia seeds, algae oil (plant-based).

B-vitamins play a crucial role in promoting a calm and balanced state. Particularly B1 (thiamine), found in foods such as oats, meat, broccoli, and flaxseeds, and B6 (pyridoxine), found in eggs, poultry meats such as chicken and turkey, sweet potatoes and oats.

However, any ‘significant’ changes to diet should be made well ahead of Bonfire Night, giving your dog time to adjust and benefit from the new nutrition. Fresh, raw food nourishes the brain and balances hormones, providing the steady energy needed to keep calm during stressful events. For more in-depth guidance on the role of nutrition in behaviour, check out our blogs, The Hidden Influence of Nutrition on Your Dog’s Mood and Could This be the Reason Your Reactive Dog is Struggling?

Sometimes, we forget that the solution can be as simple as just ‘us’. No tricks, no gadgets—just our presence. How we feel and respond greatly impacts how our dogs perceive threats. When they see us as their safe zone, they feel understood and supported.

My Favourite Tools and Techniques for Helping Dogs Remain Calm Around Fireworks

Having worked with dogs for decades, I’ve seen every kind of reaction to fireworks—from trembling wrecks to dogs bolting at the first bang. I remember one dog in particular who simply needed someone to be there, offering quiet support without doing anything more.

The most important lesson I’ve learned is that how you ‘act’, rather than ‘react’, makes all the difference. Help your dog mirror your calm, rather than reflecting their distress by overcompensating. Over the years, I’ve developed a toolkit of strategies to help dogs cope with fireworks anxiety, and I’m here to share those with you. It’s important to do or use what suits your individual dog, so watch them, learn from them and do what’s right for them.

Anxiety vests and wraps

Pressure vests, like the well-known ThunderShirt, can work wonders for many dogs by applying gentle, consistent pressure around the body, similar to swaddling a baby or using a weighted blanket for anxiety relief. This taps into their natural calming reflex, helping to ease stress and promote relaxation.

If you don’t have a pressure vest, you can create a homemade version using an old sweatshirt sleeve or even a snug dog coat. However, be mindful of overheating, especially if your dog is wearing it indoors. Always keep an eye on their behaviour to ensure they remain comfortable.

This technique, known as “deep pressure stimulation,” has been shown to reduce nervous behaviours in many dogs and can be particularly effective when combined with other calming strategies. Many pet parents have reported that using these vests brings an immediate sense of calm to their dogs, making a noticeable difference during stressful events like fireworks.

There is science behind it; pressure has a soothing effect on the nervous system. If your dog tends to panic during loud noises, these vests can be an excellent tool to have in your arsenal. [1]

However, as with all tools and techniques, not all work for every dog. There are some dogs weighted blankets and weighted vests may not work for:

Dogs with breathing issues or health conditions
Young puppies and very small adult breeds
Energetic, active dogs who dislike confinement
High-energy dogs that are uncomfortable with being wrapped or covered.
Dogs that chew and may tear apart their bedding

Natural remedies and supplements

There are some fantastic natural products that can help reduce anxiety in dogs.

I highly recommend Pet Remedy, a natural calming spray made from valerian and other essential oils. I had a wonderful chat with Gill Edwards, the founder of Pet Remedy, where we discussed the calming effects of these natural ingredients and how they can support anxious dogs. You can listen to our chat as part of the ‘Cultivating Calm’ series below.

Watch as I discuss Pet Remedy natural calming spray with Founder, Gill Edwards

Herbs

There are several herbs that can help calm your dog’s anxiety. Chamomile is great for relaxation and easing nervous stomachs, while valerian acts as a gentle sedative, soothing nerves and promoting physical relaxation. St John’s Wort, lemon balm and passionflower are all effective for dogs with fear-based anxiety, such as from thunderstorms or fireworks.

These herbs can be given as tea, tincture, or capsules, depending on your dog’s size and preference, to provide a natural alternative for anxiety relief.

When exploring natural remedies and supplements for your dog, I advise choosing products that are backed by science and approved by veterinarians. While there are many options available, doing thorough research is key to finding effective solutions with proven results.

Always choose products with a strong reputation and backed by scientific research, like ProDog’s specially formulated vitamin and mineral supplements for dogs. This ensures you’re making the best choices for your dog’s health and well-being.

For more guidance, our Beginners Guide to Dog Supplements offers tons of useful pointers.

Consulting a holistic vet, such as Dr Vicky Simon or Dr Nick Thompson, is a great step. They can provide tailored advice on herbs, foods, and supplements that address your dog’s specific needs.

Music to sooth anxiety

One of my top recommendations is using music to help calm during the unpredictable sounds of fireworks. Lisa Spector, known as “The Pet Calming Maestro, has composed music specifically designed to calm anxious pets. I had the pleasure of interviewing Lisa, where we discussed the profound effects her music has on dogs during stressful events like Bonfire Night. You can listen to her Zen Pet playlist, which has been a lifeline for many dogs (and their owners!) during fireworks season [2].

It is important to introduce your dog to any music for calming during times of rest, they will then associate the music with a state of calm and relaxation which will help bring your dog to that restful state when the music goes on and the fireworks begin.

Watch Caroline’s Interview with Lisa Spector to learn more

Learn more about introducing your dog to calming music ahead of this year’s fireworks season

By layering these strategies: natural remedies, anxiety vests, and calming music, you can help your dog feel more secure and calm during Bonfire Night. Preparation is key, so start early and build these tools into your dog’s routine before the fireworks begin.

Last-minute firework prep: How to soothe your anxious dog

If you didn’t have time to prepare in advance for fireworks, or if unexpected circumstances arise, there are still ways to support your dog during these stressful moments. Perhaps your dog is new to your home, and you weren’t aware of how they’d react, or you’ve moved to a new area and didn’t expect the fireworks to be so loud. In any case, there are steps you can take to help your dog on the night itself.

If your dog has shown sensitivity to loud noises in everyday life, such as bird scarers, backfiring cars, or sirens, it’s a good indication they may struggle with fireworks too. Even with the best preparation, fireworks can still be overwhelming for many dogs, so having a plan in place to manage their fear as the bangs begin is essential.

Blocking out the noise

One of the simplest but most effective techniques is to muffle the sound of fireworks. Shutting your curtains, playing calming music or white noise like a fan can help mask the unpredictable bangs and crackles that trigger your dog’s anxiety. I recommend something soothing, like the Zen Pet playlist by Lisa Spector, which is specifically designed to calm anxious dogs, or your dog may respond better to Reggae music or some Mozart. The key is working out what works best for your dog as an individual. Again, use music when your dog is calm, so they associate calmness with the music and help them revert to a peaceful feel.

Alternatively, white noise via music apps or YouTube can help create a consistent background hum that distracts from the fireworks outside. When you can control the sound environment inside your home, it’s much easier for your dog to remain calm.

Chewing, licking and foraging facilitates calm

When a dog is in a state of fear, no distraction will truly work. Imagine being in the middle of a war zone with bombs dropping nearby, would chewing on a chocolate bar or playing a game take your mind off the chaos? The same applies to your dog during fireworks.

However, some dogs respond well when mentally engaged in an activity and can help manage their anxiety for short periods. Offering a puzzle toy they are familiar with and find moderately easy with high-reward healthy dog treats or their favourite raw dog food can give them something positive to focus on. For dogs who find chewing a stress reliever, options like an ostrich bone, calf hooves, or coffee wood may be beneficial.

Scent games are another great option that can be done indoors. These games activate your dog’s natural foraging and problem-solving instincts. Sniffing and licking, in particular, help reduce heart rate and anxiety. Sniffing enables the release of dopamine the feel-good hormone. The goal is to shift their perception and become engrossed in natural canine behaviours that make them feel good.

It’s important to remember that while these tools may help manage anxiety in the short term, they don’t address the root cause of the fear. Practicing these exercises before exposure to loud sounds will better equip your dog to cope when stressed. It puts them in a calmer, more thoughtful state, rather than a reactive one driven by adrenaline and cortisol.

If you’re ready to dive into scent training and scent games with your dog, check out my blog, A Guide to Scent Training for Dogs, for everything you need to get started.

Comforting techniques

There’s a common misconception that comforting a frightened dog reinforces their fear, but this simply isn’t true. Calmly reassuring your dog when they’re anxious can actually help ease their fear. In fact, providing a steady, comforting presence reassures them that everything is okay. Speak softly, use long soft vowel sounds, offer gentle physical contact if they seek it, and let them know you’re there. Comforting your dog when they need it can strengthen their trust in you and help them feel safer during fireworks. I highly recommend grabbing a copy of T touch massage book by Linda Tellington – Jones, if you’d like to learn more.

If your dog is pacing or standing still and not relaxing, they are unsure what to do, they feel alone in their thoughts, place the palm of your hand on their side and one on their chest. Concentrate on ‘your’ own breathing and ‘your’ state of relaxation.

Post-fireworks care

Once the fireworks have ended, take some time to observe your dog’s behaviour. Some dogs may appear fine initially but continue to carry stress from the experience. Watch for signs like pacing, panting, or being unusually clingy, as these may indicate lingering anxiety.

Provide your dog with a ‘licky board’—I recommend using a wooden board smeared with sardine, kefir, or their favourite raw dog food. Licking and sniffing these treats can have a calming effect. You can also set up a scent trail in the garden, as mentioned previously, scent-based activities are known to help dogs relax.

If you’re heading out for a walk the next day, make sure they’re on a long line and engaged with you. This helps prevent any sudden attempts to run if they’re still feeling a bit anxious or jumpy. Always prioritise safety first.

Long-term anxiety solutions

If your dog consistently struggles with fireworks and other sounds, it would be worth exploring long-term solutions or management strategies. Severe anxiety does require consultation with a holistic veterinarian and/ or canine behaviourist, who can tailor a treatment and support plan to your dog’s specific needs. The important thing is to develop a plan that supports your dog’s emotional health, both during fireworks and in the long run.

A final thought

I’ve known plenty of people who, when all else fails, go above and beyond to put their dog’s needs first—and I applaud them for that. Some have driven their dogs to the middle of nowhere on the night of a fireworks display, hunkering down in their car, campervan, or even a tent, just to escape the noise. Others have booked their dogs into a quiet country kennel for the week, where they can feel safe and relaxed, away from the chaos.

These are all valid choices, and sometimes the preferred option. The best thing you can do is whatever keeps your dog calm and happy while creating minimal stress for you and your family. There’s no need to feel embarrassed about going the extra mile for your dog’s well-being—it’s about understanding their needs and doing what’s right for them and you.

By being proactive and prepared, you can make the experience of fireworks much less traumatic for your dog and you, allowing them to stay calm and feel safe even when the world outside is anything but.

References

Eron K, Kohnert L, Watters A, Logan C, Weisner-Rose M, Mehler PS. Weighted Blanket Use: A Systematic Review. Am J Occup Ther. 2020 Mar/Apr;74(2):7402205010p1-7402205010p14. Doi: 10.5014/ajot.2020.037358.
Bowman, A., Scottish SPCA, , Dowell, F.J. and Evans, N.P. (2017) ‘The effect of different genres of music on the stress levels of kennelled dogs’. Physiology and Behavior, 171, pp. 207-215. Doi: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2017.01.024)

1 comment

03/11/2025 at 4:27 pm

Fran

Everyone mentions sound, but nobody mentions scent. I’ve observed dogs who become anxious when that sulphur smell is in the air

Reply