Prepare ahead for fireworks season with Amy Taylor

DTC certified Professional Dog Trainer and Dorwest Ambassador Amy Taylor gives her top tips on how to support your anxious dog ahead of firework season…

“As Autumn & Winter evenings roll in, the sounds of fireworks often accompany celebrations and festivities. While many people enjoy this time of year, for our pets, these loud noises can be a source of great anxiety & fear.

Understanding your dog’s anxiety

Before diving into solutions, it’s essential to understand why dogs may be afraid of fireworks. The loud bangs, flashes of light, and unfamiliar smells can be overwhelming for their sensitive senses.

Signs of anxiety may include:

Whining, howling or barking
Hiding or trying to escape
Trembling or pacing
Destructive behaviour
Panting

If your dog is amongst those who are anxious and scared of fireworks, don’t panic, here are some of my suggestions of things you can do to help!

1. Create a safe space & make the space inviting

Provide a cosy bed: Use your dog’s favourite bed or blanket to create a comfortable spot.
Incorporate familiar items: Add toys or items with your scent, which can provide comfort and reassurance.
Training: Include some training in the area to ensure your dog is comfortable, such as crate training or boundary games.

2. Soundproofing and blocking visuals in the area

While you can’t completely eliminate the noise and visuals, you can dilute them:

Close windows and doors: Make sure all windows and doors are securely shut to minimise noise.
Close curtains or hang blankets: Helps to block out light and sound.
Play soothing music or white noise: This can help drown out the sound of fireworks, creating a calming atmosphere. Another option would be to position a fan facing into the corner of a room; when the air from the fan hits the wall and rebounds off this can create an air disturbance. It will also help keep the dog cool.

3. Plan ahead

Schedule time away: If you know your area will be particularly loud, consider arranging to stay with a friend or family member who has a quieter environment or book some time away (if this is possible).
Make sure your dog has an ID tag attached to a collar: This is a just in case if your dog escapes at any time, such as if you are caught off guard or they escape from an open door (but ideally these will remain closed at all times)

4. Desensitisation training

Desensitisation is a behavioural training technique that involves gradually exposing your dog to the source of their fear—in this case, fireworks—at a low intensity and rewarding them for being around the sounds. The goal is to help your dog associate the previously frightening sounds with positive experiences, reducing their anxiety over time. The earlier you start, the more effective the training will be.

You will need:

Firework sound recordings: Various audio recordings of fireworks are online.
Training programme or enrichment activity: This is the dogs calming activity or job.
High-value treats: Use treats your dog loves—these will be crucial for positive reinforcement.

The training:

Play the sounds at low volume: Start by playing the firework sounds at a very low volume whilst employing your dog in an activity such as training or an enrichment activity. It’s essential that the sound is barely noticeable to your dog. Mark and reward your dog with extra treats if they appear to notice the sounds.

Increase volume gradually: Once your dog is comfortable with low volume, slowly increase the volume over several sessions. Always ensure that you’re moving at a pace that your dog can handle. If they start to show signs of anxiety, back off and lower the volume again!

5. Consider using products to help you dog’s anxiety

Natural calming products - Dorwest Scullcap and Valerian Tablets and Valerian Compound are a fantastic addition to support your dog during this time.
Thunder shirts or body wrapping: These snug-fitting garments apply gentle pressure to help calm anxious dogs. Please be sure to condition your dog to this garment and ensure they are comfortable wearing it before the event. (Note: not all dogs enjoy this type of holistic support and can have opposite effects, just like in humans)

Fireworks can be a source of fear for many dogs, but with careful planning and a little extra love, you can create a safe space that helps your four-legged friend feel secure. Remember, your support and understanding are invaluable in helping them navigate these stressful moments.

Here’s to a happy and safe firework season for you and your pets!”