While the 4th of July celebrations may be a wonderful and exciting time for humans, the story can differ for dogs. Many dogs are scared of fireworks and can struggle and feel anxious with all the whizzes and bangs.
In this article, we’re going to help you find out:
- Why dogs are scared of fireworks
- Signs to look out for if you think your dog is frightened by fireworks
- How to help your dog prepare for the 4th of July Fireworks
- Other options to try if they’re scared of fireworks
So if you’re worried about firework-related anxiety in your dog and need tips in calming them down during 4th of July fireworks, you’re in the right place!
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.
Signs of firework anxiety in dogs
One way dogs communicate is through their body language. If your dog is scared of fireworks, they typically 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 will often tremble and shake when they are in a scary situation, so you’ll often see a dog shaking when they’re scared of fireworks.
Panting and Drooling
Hyper salivating when scared, frightened, or anxious is a common sign in dogs frightened by fireworks. If your dog is breathing fast or drooling like crazy, they’re probably scared.
Dogs barking at fireworks
If you’re wondering, ‘Why does my dog bark at fireworks?’ Well, when a dog is terrified, they’ll often ‘bark at the scary thing’ to try and make the firework go away. They may also whine or cry because they’re so distressed.
Hiding or trying to escape from fireworks
This might look like your dog digging at the couch, rugs, carpets, their bed, or hiding under a table or even your shirt! They just desperately want to avoid any more contact with the terrifying fireworks, so they will try and dig their way out of it.
Licking and chewing to make themselves feel better
Licking and chewing releases endorphins, so when many dogs are under stress, they will lick and chew on things, often things you love dearly, like your favorite shoes. They’re not doing it as a protest; they’re just trying to make themselves feel better. A bit like us biting our nails or pulling on our hair.
How to help your dog prepare for the 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 them to firework noises in advance
Play some noises at a low volume in the next room from your dog so they can just hear them, and give them treats to start changing the association. Treats = good things!
Over time, you can increase the volume. If your dog shows any signs of stress or anxiety to the firework noises, go back and reduce the volume to a level they can cope with.
Create a safe den and close curtains and blinds
Some dogs enjoy being in an enclosed space; it might be a covered crate, a pillow fort, or just a gap at the end of the couch covered with a blanket.
Blocking out the sudden changes in light that fireworks cause by closing curtains and blinds can help dogs who may fixate or be startled by the bright lights and flashes.
Use music to muffle and mask the firework noise
Brown noise which sounds like a low rumbling, can help to mask the sound when dogs are scared of firework noises. If music is more your thing, then classical works, but research suggests that Rock or Reggae seems to slow a dog’s heart rate the most.
Use puzzle toys and enrichment, including scent
Stuff up your dog’s favorite lick mat with delicious food like Spot & Tango fresh food, or use Unkibble in enrichment games like ones by Nina Ottosson will help distract them from the fireworks and give them something else to focus on.
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 and train if they want to
Playing games with toys and treats, and having some fun training with positive reinforcement training and your dog’s favorite Spot & Tango food as a reward. You can use 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.
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 4th of July, and while sedating, it shouldn’t make your precious pooch too groggy.
- CBD is another option, and rising in popularity in pet anxiety, but check with a professional before administering it.
It’s also worth considering if simply going on vacation to somewhere where there won’t be huge fireworks could be a blessed relief for everyone, but mostly your firework-phobic four-legged friend!
We hope this has given you some ideas for how to help your dog feel safe around Fireworks. Firework anxiety is common, but by understanding your dog’s body language and offering appropriate support, you can help them manage their anxiety and feel more comfortable during the 4th of July celebrations.
