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+91-7945023371Fireworks might be awe-inspiring for some people, but many animals are frightened of fireworks and find the sound and spectacle terrifying.
Dog fireworks anxiety can leave your pets in a panicked state.
It should go without saying that anxious dogs don’t belong at fireworks displays.
But even dogs at home can be overwhelmed by the noise, especially if the neighbors are setting off their own.
That’s why it’s so important to support your dog during fireworks.
Dogs that are scared of fireworks might hide, tremble, pace, or whine in response to the sounds, leading pet parents to consider trying medications to help deal with these behaviors.
Let’s look at a few tips that can help reduce dog fireworks anxiety.
You can help dogs that are afraid of fireworks learn to cope with them by setting up training sessions throughout the year, well in advance of events such as the Fourth of July or New Year’s Eve fireworks displays. These are the most active holidays for fireworks anxiety in dogs. Begin by playing a fireworks sound effect (many are available free online) at a very low level for a brief period while giving your dog a series of small, tasty dog treats and lots of praise when they remain calm. Then turn the sound off and stop giving treats.
Repeat the process, always with the sound at a low level, until your dog looks to you expectantly when it starts.
Always be sure to check that your dog is comfortable with the sounds and not displaying signs of anxiety.
Gradually turn up the sound in subsequent training sessions, varying the recordings to include a variety of firework types, until your dog begins to associate the noises with goodies and praise.
Much like swaddling helps calm infants, a snug garment that puts gentle pressure on your dog’s torso can reduce fireworks anxiety.
Get your dog used to wearing a pressure wrap—like a dog anxiety vest—before fireworks so that by the time the event arrives, your dog will be comfortable with the garment.
Going for a long hike or spending time playing with pals during the day will help wear out your dog before the fireworks begin.
A dog that’s mentally and physically exhausted might be less likely to react to fireworks, so plan a day of fun activities that will leave your dog ready for a snooze.
It’s important to time your dog’s dinner and potty trips well in advance of nightfall, since fireworks typically start as soon as the sun sets.
There’s nothing worse than a dog who fears fireworks that needs a potty break but is too terrified to step out the door.
Give your dog enough time to finish his dinner, digest, and potty before the noise begins so they’re not forced to hold it during an already stressful period.
If you don’t have a fenced yard, take your dog out for potty walks on a dog leash, just in case you hear fireworks while you’re outside.
Keeping your pup leashed will keep them from darting away from loud noises.
Provide a distraction by giving your dog something delicious to focus on during fireworks. You can also give your pup a frozen treat to gnaw on, like a carrot, or a long-lasting chew.
These can help keep your pup’s mind distracted.
Anxious dogs don’t belong at fireworks displays, but even dogs at home can be overwhelmed by the noise.
It’s easy to understand why dogs fear fireworks; the unpredictable booming sounds can be perceived as an impending threat and make a dog feel vulnerable.
While counterconditioning with a fireworks recording throughout the year will help your dog learn to cope with the noise, an easy way to manage dog fireworks anxiety during the event is to simply muffle the sounds with something else.
Plug in a white noise machine (like a Yogasleep) or turn on some calming music loud enough so the fireworks are camouflaged. If your dog’s “safe zone” is their crate, you can also cover the top, sides, and back with a thick blanket and play music or sounds for them. Just make sure your dog can leave the crate if they want to.
You might have heard that comforting your dog in times of stress can reinforce their fears.
However, your dog’s reactions to fireworks are based on a legitimate fear.
Providing comfort during this time is appropriate and often helpful.
Sitting close to your dog, petting them gently and offering quiet words of reassurance during scary events like fireworks can help to center your dog and might even reduce their fearfulness.
Plus, doing so will help your dog understand that you’re their partner and that they can always turn to you when they’re feeling scared.
Dog calming supplements can be used to help support your pet during stressful events such as fireworks. Another alternative is a pheromone collar or calming diffuser.
These calming solutions can really help your furry family member relax during stressful times.
If your dog’s behavior doesn’t improve, find a positive trainer to help you and your dog work through relaxation protocols.
If your dog’s fireworks anxiety puts them or you in danger, talk with your vet or a board-certified veterinary behaviorist about anxiety medication for dogs and whether it’s necessary.
Remember that when dogs fear fireworks it’s driven by instinct, and it will likely take a multi-step approach to help your dog feel more comfortable with the sounds.
Content Credits: Victoria Schade, CPDT-KA Animal Trainer
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