Why are dogs scared of fireworks?

While humans may look forward to fireworks displays around holidays, our canine companions often find them distressing. In fact, one study found that 52% of surveyed pet parents reported their dog showing signs of fear during fireworks displays. Fireworks anxiety in dogs can manifest in various ways, from mild unease to severe panic, and can worsen with age.

But what is it about fireworks that makes our dogs so scared? And what steps can we take to make sure they’re safe and comfortable? These questions and more answered below.

The top five reasons for dog firework anxiety

Every dog is different, so there may not be one specific reason why your dog is afraid of fireworks. When we asked our Lovet veterinarians, they listed these as the most common reasons why fireworks likely cause anxiety in dogs.

Fireworks are loud

Dogs have an acute sense of hearing, making them more sensitive to loud noises. Fireworks produce sharp, explosive sounds that are far louder to dogs than they are to humans, which can be startling, overwhelming, and even painful or damaging to their hearing.

Fireworks are threatening

As humans, we can recognize the source of fireworks and determine them harmless. Dogs don’t have the level of understanding we do, and can interpret loud noises like fireworks, sirens, or construction as threats.

Fireworks are unpredictable

The erratic pattern of fireworks, with loud bangs followed by silence and then more explosions, is unlike any other sound dogs encounter regularly. This unpredictability can cause confusion and anxiety, as dogs can't anticipate when the next loud noise will occur.

Fireworks are overstimulating

In addition to loud noises, fireworks produce bright flashes of light and sudden movements in the sky, which can also be distressing for dogs. Dogs are not accustomed to seeing such intense, random bursts of light, and this visual component can compound their fear and confusion.

Previous negative experiences

If a dog has been frightened by fireworks in the past, they are likely to remember that experience. This learned behavior can be difficult to overcome without proper desensitization and training, and it can contribute to a cycle of anxiety each time fireworks are heard.

How to tell if your dog is scared by fireworks

Recognizing the signs of fear in your dog is the first step in helping them cope. Common indicators include:

Shivering, trembling, or shaking off

Whether it’s a minor quiver or a full-body tremble, dogs shiver just like we do when afraid. Your dog may also shake themselves off (like after a bath), which helps them relieve tension and can be a sign of stress.

Excessive barking, whimpering, and whining

Prolonged and intense barking is a common reaction as dogs try to express their fear and warn off what they perceive as a threat. Whimpering and whining, on the other hand, is more of a request for comfort from you.

Hiding

Many dogs will seek out small, enclosed spaces where they feel more secure, such as under furniture, in closets, or in their crates.

Pacing or restlessness

An anxious or fearful dog might not be able to settle down and may continuously pace back and forth or move restlessly from one spot to another.

Destructive behaviors

In an attempt to escape the noise or alleviate their anxiety, dogs might chew on furniture, scratch doors, or otherwise damage their surroundings.

Physical signs

Physical responses to stress are common in dogs, which could include drooling, panting, increased heart rate, and vomiting or diarrhea.

Attempts to escape

The most dangerous manifestation of fireworks anxiety is when a dog tries to escape. This can involve breaking through windows, digging under fences, chewing on the bars of their crate, or running away from home. Such attempts can lead to severe injuries, damaged teeth and nails, traffic accidents, or your dog even becoming lost.

How to calm a dog during fireworks

If fireworks cause your dog to be fearful or anxious, it can be stressful for the both of you! Here’s some of our veterinarians’s top tips for putting your dog at ease.

Create a safe space

Designate a quiet, secure area in your home where your dog can retreat during fireworks. This could be a crate covered with a blanket, a closet, or a room with minimal windows.

Use white noise

Playing white noise or calming music can help drown out the sound of fireworks in addition to providing a soothing environment for your dog.

Talk to your Lovet team

While certain medications like Benadryl are often recommended on the internet for calming dogs during fireworks, you should never administer any human medication to your dog without checking with your vet first. At Lovet, we’ll take a look at your pet’s overall health and behavior during a nose-to-tail exam to provide a safe and effective anti-anxiety medication and supplement recommendation for your dog.

How to prepare your dog for fireworks

Preparation is key to minimizing your dog's anxiety and keeping them safe during fireworks. With the right techniques and a little practice, you can help your dog feel more comfortable and less stressed when the fireworks begin.

Bring them inside

Fireworks are one of the leading causes of lost pets and leaving your dog outside unsupervised increases their risk of running away. If for some reason you can’t bring them inside, make sure they’re on a secure leash and in a fenced-in or other closed area.

Make sure their microchip is up to date

Microchipping your dog provides a permanent form of identification, greatly improving the chances of being reunited if they run away. Pick a fireworks-based holiday like New Year’s Eve or Fourth of July as your yearly reminder to ensure your contact information is up to date in the microchip registry.

Try noise conditioning

If your dog is young, the most effective way to prepare them for fireworks is noise conditioning. As early as possible in their life, expose them to loud, sudden noises in a removed way (for example, as a recording or video) to allow them to explore the sound at their own pace. Noise conditioning your puppy in this way can help them avoid developing a phobia of fireworks or other loud noises in the first place.


However, old dogs still can learn new tricks! While it may not be possible to eliminate their fear altogether, you can still use noise conditioning to desensitize your dog and reduce the intensity of their reaction.

Use calming aids

Since fireworks phobias are a type of anxiety and elicit a fear response, it’s common for pets who experience them to need anti-anxiety medications. Some exceptionally fearful dogs may also need sedatives in conjunction with anti-anxiety medication to be comfortable during fireworks season. Ask your vet if prescribed calming aids could be the right fit for your dog.

There are also plenty of non-prescription calming aids available that can be used in conjunction with or as an alternative to prescribed medication. Talk to your vet about whether anxiety wraps, pheromone diffusers, natural supplements, and other calming aids could be an effective tool in your fireworks preparation toolbox. Many dog parents report success using one or a combination of calming aids — but always consult with your vet before trying them out.

Stay aware of scheduled festivities

Though it can be hard to predict every time, try your best to know when fireworks are typically happening in your area. Getting your pup comfy and cozy in their safe space before the fireworks begin can help reduce the initial shock and surprise and keep their anxiety at a more manageable baseline.

Stick to a routine

Fireworks season often means parties and gatherings, which can make it hard to stick to your dog's usual feeding and walking times. However, consistency can provide a sense of security for your pup amidst the chaos of fireworks — so it’s worth it to head home a little early if you can.

We’re here to help.

We’ve been helping pet parents like you keep their furry friends healthy, happy, and safe during fireworks for over 40 years. We’re here to help you understand your pet’s individual triggers and can offer personalized guidance on proactive steps, including medication options if the situation is appropriate. Find the Lovet nearest you to book your appointment with us today.