Introduction
Bonfire Night might be a highlight of the autumn calendar for us humans, but for our dogs, it can be one of the most frightening nights of the year. Loud bangs, bright flashes, and unpredictable noises can leave even the calmest pets trembling with fear. According to the RSPCA’s official fireworks advice for pets, over half of UK dogs show signs of fear during Bonfire Night, but there are simple ways to help them feel safe.
If you’re searching for how to calm a dog during Bonfire Night fireworks, you’re not alone. Every November, thousands of UK dog owners look for ways to comfort their anxious companions. The good news? With preparation, patience, and a few proven techniques, you can help your dog feel safe, secure, and soothed all night long.
Why Dogs Are Scared of Fireworks
To us, fireworks are a dazzling display, but to a dog, they’re sudden explosions of sound and light that seem to come from nowhere. Dogs hear at much higher frequencies than humans, so what feels like a loud pop to us can sound like a thunderous boom to them. The unpredictability of fireworks, their random timing, volume, and flashes, triggers a dog’s natural “fight or flight” response.
Many dogs show clear signs of stress during Bonfire Night: trembling, pacing, drooling, panting, or trying to hide. Some may even attempt to escape, which is why keeping doors and windows secure is so important. For puppies or rescue dogs with little exposure to loud noises, the experience can be especially distressing.
Understanding why dogs react this way is the first step to helping them feel safe. Once you recognise the signs of fear, you can start preparing your home and routine to ease their anxiety before the fireworks begin.
Does your dog show any of these signs when fireworks start?
Preparing Your Home Before Bonfire Night
Preparation is key when it comes to keeping your dog calm during Bonfire Night fireworks. A little effort in advance can make a huge difference once the bangs begin. Start by creating a safe space or “den”, a quiet, cosy area where your dog can retreat if they feel frightened. Line it with their favourite blanket, toys, and something that smells like you.
Close all windows, curtains, and doors to muffle noise and block out flashes of light. Turn on the TV or play calming background music to help mask sudden sounds. Make sure your dog’s microchip details and ID tags are up to date in case they panic and try to escape.
If you know your neighbours often set off fireworks early, keep your dog indoors well before dark and stay home with them if possible. Your calm presence will reassure them more than anything else.
Have you started setting up your dog’s safe space for Bonfire Night yet?
The Day of Bonfire Night: Routine and Timing
When Bonfire Night arrives, sticking to a calm, predictable routine can make all the difference for your dog. Dogs feel safest when they know what to expect, so try to keep mealtimes, walks, and bedtime as close to normal as possible. That sense of familiarity will help reduce stress before the fireworks even begin.
Take your dog for a long walk before dusk, well before the first fireworks are likely to start. A good walk helps tire them out and reduces pent-up energy that could turn into anxiety later on. Keep your dog on a lead, as sudden bangs might cause them to bolt.
Feed your dog earlier in the evening, a full tummy can make them feel more relaxed. Once fireworks start, keep your dog indoors and stay with them. Your calm voice and steady presence will reassure them that there’s nothing to fear.
If you need to leave the house, ask someone your dog knows well to stay with them. Avoid leaving them alone, even confident dogs can panic when startled by loud noises.
How does your dog usually behave on Bonfire Night, do they stay calm, or do they need a bit of extra comfort?
Natural & Vet-Approved Calming Aids
If your dog struggles during Bonfire Night fireworks, a few trusted calming aids can make the evening much more manageable. In the UK, vets and behaviourists often recommend gentle, non-medicinal options that can be used safely at home to reduce anxiety and stress.
Charities like the Blue Cross offer expert guidance on calming dogs during fireworks, including advice on pheromone products and gentle herbal aids.
One of the most popular choices is a pheromone diffuser, such as Adaptil. It releases synthetic calming scents that mimic the comforting pheromones a mother dog gives off to her puppies. You can plug it in a few days before Bonfire Night to help your dog feel more relaxed.
Calming treats and supplements containing ingredients like chamomile, L-theanine, or valerian root can also promote relaxation. Many UK brands offer these as chews or soft bites, making them easy to give before fireworks begin.
For dogs who become very distressed, an anxiety jacket or thunder shirt can provide gentle, constant pressure that helps them feel secure. In some cases, vets may recommend prescription medication, but this should only be used under professional guidance.
No matter which method you choose, combine it with comfort and routine, no single product replaces human reassurance.
Have you ever tried a natural calming aid for your dog, or are you planning to test one this Bonfire Night?
Sound Desensitisation & Training for Firework Anxiety
If your dog panics every Bonfire Night, sound desensitisation can be one of the most effective long-term solutions. The idea is simple, gently expose your dog to firework sounds in a safe, controlled way so they learn there’s nothing to fear.
Start a few weeks (or even months) before fireworks season. Play recordings of fireworks at a very low volume while your dog is relaxed, perhaps during mealtime or playtime. Reward them with treats and praise for staying calm. Over time, gradually increase the volume and variety of sounds, always keeping your dog comfortable and relaxed.
You can also try the Dogs Trust “Sounds Scary” desensitisation programme, which provides free downloadable audio tracks to help your dog adapt to firework sounds safely. You can also work with a qualified behaviourist if your dog’s anxiety is severe.
Consistency is key, short, positive sessions over time help your dog build confidence and resilience. Remember, this isn’t a quick fix, but it can dramatically reduce their fear year after year.
Could starting desensitisation training now help your dog feel calmer by next Bonfire Night?
What NOT to Do During Fireworks
When fireworks start, it’s easy to panic and accidentally do the wrong thing while trying to comfort your dog. But staying calm and avoiding certain behaviours can make all the difference.
First, never punish or scold your dog for being scared, it only increases their anxiety and damages their trust. Equally, try not to over-comfort them with excessive fussing, as it can reinforce fearful behaviour. Instead, stay close, speak softly, and let your dog decide how much contact they want.
Avoid taking your dog outside once the fireworks have begun. Even a confident dog can bolt if startled by a loud bang. Keep windows, doors, and cat flaps closed to prevent escape.
Finally, don’t ignore your dog’s fear. Subtle signs of stress can quickly escalate if left unchecked.
Staying calm yourself is the best reassurance your dog can have. How do you usually respond when the fireworks begin?
Featured FAQ: How to Calm a Dog During Bonfire Night Fireworks
1. How can I calm my dog during Bonfire Night fireworks?
To calm your dog during Bonfire Night fireworks, create a safe, quiet room with curtains closed and lights on. Play calm music or TV to mask sounds and stay nearby for comfort. Using pheromone diffusers or natural calming treats can also ease your dog’s anxiety.
2. Should I walk my dog before Bonfire Night fireworks start?
Yes, always walk your dog before fireworks begin, ideally before dusk. A long, relaxed walk helps them burn off energy and reduces stress later. Keep your dog on a lead, as sudden noises may startle them if fireworks go off early.
3. What can I give my dog to help with firework anxiety?
Try pheromone diffusers, herbal supplements, or calming treats designed for dogs. You can also use an anxiety jacket or thunder shirt. Speak to your vet before giving any medication, they can recommend safe options for your dog’s firework anxiety.
4. Do fireworks hurt a dog’s ears?
Yes. Fireworks can reach very high noise levels that hurt a dog’s sensitive hearing. Keep windows closed, curtains drawn, and use background sounds like radio or TV to soften the noise. Providing a calm space helps protect your dog’s ears and reduce fear.
5. How early should I prepare my dog for Bonfire Night?
Start preparing a few weeks before Bonfire Night. Play gentle recordings of fireworks at low volume, rewarding calm behaviour. Gradually increase the volume over time to help your dog become desensitised and less fearful when the real fireworks begin.
I’m part of a blog circle of pet professionals. Click here to read Doggy Dawdles firework blog.