Bonfire Night: What Your Dog Needs From You

Bonfire Night and New Year’s Eve can be magical for humans — but for many dogs, fireworks are terrifying. Sudden bangs, flashes, and vibrations can leave even the most confident dogs trembling, hiding, or trying to escape. 

The good news? With the right preparation and support, you can help your dog feel calmer and safer during fireworks season. 

Why are fireworks scary?

Dogs experience the world very differently to us. Their hearing is far more sensitive, and they can detect vibrations and frequencies we don’t even notice. Fireworks can therefore feel unpredictable, loud, and inescapable — triggering their natural “fight or flight” response. 

Common signs of firework anxiety include: 

• Trembling, pacing, or panting 

• Hiding or seeking comfort 

• Barking or whining 

• Refusing food or toileting indoors 

• Trying to escape 

Be prepared!

1. Create a safe haven: Set up a cosy, quiet den where your dog can retreat. Use a central room if possible. Avoid using rooms that are surrounded by windows. Use blankets, beds, and familiar scents. Some dogs prefer enclosed crates or covered corners — others like to hide under furniture. Let your dog choose where they feel safest. 

2. Play calming music: White noise or classical music are good options. Turn the TV on or play music with a stronger beat in another room to help mask the bangs.

3. Cover windows and fireplaces: hang duvets or blankets over windows and fireplaces to muffle the sound.

4. Walk early (or skip a walk): Take your dog out before it gets dark. Once the fireworks start, keep them indoors — sudden bangs outside can cause panic and lead to dogs bolting. 

5. Make sure your dog is secure: Double-check that your garden and doors are secure and that your dog’s ID tag and microchip details are up to date — just in case they get startled and run. 

6. Build positive associations: In the weeks leading up to firework season, you can gently desensitise your dog to bangs using firework soundtracks played at a low volume while pairing with treats, natural chews or play. Go slow — we are aiming for calm here, not fear! If your dog looks worried or startled, stop and reduce the volume when you try again.

7. Have Adaptil or Pet Remedy diffusers plugged in: although these won't resolve severe anxiety, they aim to reduce mild signs of anxiety

On the night...

• Try to stay calm: Dogs look to us for reassurance. If you act relaxed, it helps signal that everything is okay. Avoid shouting and telling your dog off — just calmly offer comfort if your dog seeks it. 

• Draw the blinds or curtains: This helps to block flashes of light and can reduce visual stimulation and make your dog feel more secure. 

• Offer your dog natural chews, Kongs or Licki mats: Licking and chewing releases calming hormones and helps your dog self-soothe. Prepare long-lasting treats before the evening begins so you are stocked up ready

DO NOT TAKE YOUR DOG TO FIREWORK DISPLAYS: many people believe that taking their new puppy to a firework display will help their dog to get used to them. Unfortunately this is not true, there is a very real risk that doing this will create a dog with severe noise phobias and the fear of fireworks can generalise to fear of other loud noises / non firework related bangs in future.

After the fireworks:

Give your dog time to recover. Keep routines predictable for the next few days, and offer extra enrichment or scentwork games to help them decompress and reset emotionally. 

If your dog struggles every year, speak to your vet or a qualified behaviourist well before the next firework season — there are additional options such as supplements, medication and behaviour modification plans that can make a huge difference. 

You're not alone

Firework fear is extremely common, and it doesn’t mean your dog is being “naughty”. With patience, planning, and positive strategies, you can help them feel safe again. 

At Super-Nova Dog Training & Behaviour, I offer support to help dogs build confidence and cope better.

Get in touch to discuss a tailored calmness plan for your dog — and make this firework season a little easier for both of you.