Is your dog scared of fireworks? Many dogs fear fireworks and feel anxious with all the noise and commotion. Learn how to prepare your dog for fireworks, how to help your dog if they are scared, and how to identify fearfulness in your dog.
How to prepare your dog for 4th of July fireworks
To get your dog prepped for Independence Day celebrations, as well as how to calm a dog down during fireworks, try some of our following tips:
- Desensitize your dog beforehand
Play noises at a low volume so can get used to it. Give them treats to change the association. Treats = good things! Over time, increase the volume.
- Create a safe den and close curtains and blinds
Some dogs enjoy being in an enclosed space; like a covered crate or a pillow fort. Close curtains and blinds to block sudden changes of light.
- Use music to muffle the noise
White noise of low rumbling masks the sound of fireworks. If music is more your thing, research suggests that Rock or Reggae seems to slow a dog’s heart rate the most.
- Use puzzle toys and enrichment, including scent
Fill your dog’s favorite lick mat with delicious food like Spot & Tango fresh food, or use Unkibble in enrichment games to distract them from the fireworks.
Aromatherapy oils can also provide enrichment and have calming effects, with Lavender being a popular one used to help relax dogs, and it’s pretty nice for us humans too!
- Play training games
Try toys or positive reinforcement training to occupy your dog. Maybe they’ll be extra excited for a Spot & Tango snack as a reward. You can use a Chicken Bite or UnKibble as a high-value reward.
- Be there for them
No need to smother them, but if your dog asks for a cuddle, please give them one. You can’t reinforce fear, but you CAN comfort a scared dog.
Signs your dog may be scared of fireworks
One way dogs communicate is through their body language. If your dog is scared of fireworks, they may exhibit many of the following signs to show that they’re stressed, worried, or would REALLY like the fireworks to stop now and go away.
- Shaking when scared of fireworks
Dogs often tremble and shake in scary situations, so you’ll often see a dog shaking when they’re scared of fireworks.
- Panting and Drooling
Hypersalivation when scared, frightened, or anxious is common for dogs. If your dog is breathing fast or drooling like crazy, they’re probably scared.
- Dogs barking at fireworks
When a dog is scared, they’ll often bark to try and make it go away. They may also whine or cry because they’re so distressed.
- Hiding or trying to escape from fireworks
Maybe your dog digs at the couch, rugs, carpets, their bed, or hiding under a table or even your shirt!
- Licking and chewing to make themselves feel better
This releases endorphins, so dogs may lick and chew on things when they’re stressed. It’s a bit like us biting our nails or pulling on our hair.
Why dogs are scared of fireworks?
Fireworks can be very unsettling for dogs as they are loud, bright, and unpredictable. To a dog, it can feel like they’re living in a war zone. Dogs see the world differently from humans, so instead of being delighted by fireworks, they can feel unsafe and under attack.
What else can I do if my dog is scared of fireworks?
If you already *know* your dog will have a hard time with 4th of July fireworks because they have been stressed out in the past, then it’s worth speaking to your veterinarian about medication that might help.
- Some veterinarians suggest an antihistamine like Benadryl for dog firework anxiety, but it’s wise to ask the experts before you go raiding the local drug stores!
- There are also newer products on the market like Sileo, which is designed for short-term help in stressful situations like the 4th of July, and while sedating, it shouldn’t make your precious pooch too groggy.
- CBD is another option for some dogs as well!
We hope you’ve learned how to help your dog manage their anxiety and feel more comfortable during the 4th of July celebrations.
