Though they can be exciting times for paw-rents, celebratory events such as Bonfire Night can cause your beloved pooch stress due to the loud noises and flashing lights. 62% of dogs are reported to suffer from noise phobias1.
With Bonfire Night on the horizon, Canine Behaviourist and resident dog expert at Canine Cottages, Dr. Emma Scales-Theobald shares her expert advice on how to keep your canine companion safe and sound on Bonfire Night.
Dr Emma Scales-Theobald, Canine Behaviourist and resident dog expert at Canine Cottages
- Make your dog a soothing mixtape
In the lead-up to Bonfire Night, it’s important to mindfully start exposing your dog to the sounds of fireworks and bonfires, starting at a low volume—this will help them view the sounds as ‘normal’ background noise.
You can practise various techniques to make the experience less triggering for your dog. Dr Emma suggests, “There are some playlists designed for training dogs available online, or your dog may prefer classical music. I suggest putting a soundtrack on in the background, at a low volume first, and building up the volume slowly over time. This will help them to view the sound as ‘normal’ background noise.”
- Building positive associations with their favourite treats
Creating a positive association with fireworks through a calm environment can decrease anxiety and help your dog overcome fear. There are a few things that you can do to alleviate stress for your furry friend. Dr Emma suggests, “On the night, provide them with their favourite treats when a firework goes off; it will encourage them to come to you rather than run away.”
Ensuring that your dog is well-nourished is essential for their well-being. Dr Emma adds, “Some dogs go off their food and won’t do their business on walks due to fear. Therefore, make sure you plan walks and mealtimes to be earlier in the night to avoid the extra stress.”
- Create a comforting doggy den with pillows and blankets
A comfortable den becomes a sanctuary, offering dogs a sense of security during periods of loud noise, such as fireworks. To create a den, use blankets to cover a crate, place a blanket under a table, or find a peaceful spot under the stairs.
Dr Emma suggests, “To be extra comforting for your dog, create a den around its existing dog bed and in or near the same spot. It’s best to make a den a few days before fireworks night, so your dog gets used to the new environment.
“You can add extra pillows, cushions, and blankets to make it cosier. For extra comfort for your dog, include a blanket or jumper that smells of you, or spray the den with pet-safe calming sprays, such as dog-safe lavender calming sprays.”
- Reducing triggering stimuli for maximum comfort
Dogs are highly sensitive to the sudden and intense stimuli caused by fireworks. The loud bangs, bright lights, and vibrations can trigger fear and anxiety, making them feel unsafe and overwhelmed.
Dr Emma says, “Dogs may believe something bad is occurring, which evokes their natural fight-or-flight response. This makes them scared and stressed, leading them to bark or run and hide.
“Because dogs bark at fireworks out of fear, it can be difficult to get them to stop barking at them. Instead, try to comfort and reassure your dog, and if possible, distract them.” she adds.
Things you can do to alleviate fear:
- Play loud music, or turn up the TV – use calming classical music to drown out the sound a little for them.
- Draw your blinds/curtains – to keep the flashes out and reduce the sound.
- Entertain your pooch – staying close to them will comfort them and help offer some reassurance.
- Ensure your dog’s safety with distraction techniques
There are various other techniques you can practise to make the experience smoother and help your dog cooperate. Dr Emma adds, “Distract them by playing games with them and providing them with puzzle feeders to help show they do not need to be afraid of the sound. In anticipation of your dog being afraid of fireworks, you can get ready some calming products, such as a calming collar or calming plug-in room spray.”
Alternatively, some paw-rents prefer to avoid fireworks altogether: “It can be helpful to rent a cottage in the countryside or stay with friends/family who are away from fireworks to avoid them completely.”
For extra guidance on how to look after your dog around fireworks night, please visit
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