Your need-to-knows from Poppets Dog Training about your dog and fireworks.
The seasons are changing. Before we know it, the nights will be drawing in and we’ll be figuring out whether changing the clocks gives us one extra, or one less hour in bed… it’s an extra hour in Autumn by the way!
We’ll also be into the celebration season, which means fireworks. From Halloween and Bonfire Night, through to Diwali, Christmas, New Year and Chinese New Year, our cold, clear skies will be filled with fireworks over many nights.
It’s an exciting time.
But any dog or animal owner knows, the unpredictable noise and visual stimulation from fireworks can be source of fear and anxiety for our pets.
The RSCPA report over 60% of dogs showing visible signs of fear when hearing fireworks. They receive hundreds of calls about distressed dogs during the season, while The Kennel Club reports the number of dogs reported missing as doubling at this time.
You’ve asked us lots about fireworks, so we wanted to answer your questions so you can be best prepared. As a dog owner, you can’t completely take away the unexpected, but you can reduce the impact of it by drowning out unexpected noises with an even louder sense of safety.
Take a walk me…
What happens when a dog hears a firework?
It can vary, just like with human reactions to different stimuli.
Sometimes not much happens at all, and some dogs are able to hear the sound and not be bothered by it. In fact, some like to watch fireworks.
Other dogs will be very concerned or scared by the noise and flashing lights. But responses can also change. Just because a dog showed no reaction one year, it doesn’t mean they won’t get scared another.
Why do dogs respond to fireworks like this?
The idea of fireworks must be strange to dogs. While they can’t speak to us, they are always communicating and it’s important to learn to listen and read what they’re telling us.
I’ve worked with dogs my whole life and have thought lots about how you create the best environment for your pet to thrive. You’ll know the unique ways your dog tells you they’re happy, sad, excited or scared.
Some dogs, like people, are better able to cope with new scenarios. Some of this will be down to early socialisation and experiences, and some will be down to personality. The key is to know your dog and meet their individual needs.
Can these experiences have a lasting impact?
Absolutely, but not always.
A negative experience can have a huge impact on how your dog deals with situations in the future.
Just recently, we shared the story of Luna and her family. Luna developed anxiety and started refusing walks after unexpectedly hearing fireworks when out and about. This sense of fear grew and became generalised to other noises, bangs and new experiences.
You can read the full story and find out about the work Luna did with Poppets here.
Is it best to get dogs used to fireworks and loud noises?
Yes, this is a really good idea.
Experiencing loud noises, changes of routine and unexpected events should be part of early socialisation and dog training... but always within the wider context of the safety provided by you, their owner.
There are specific audio resources to get dogs used to fireworks. Alternatively, I’ve played them through YouTube on the TV. You start off quietly and then build the volume over time.
When doing this, you are not looking for any reaction from the dog as you want them to go about their day as normal.
Remember, they’ll be looking to you as a reference point for whether they should be scared or not.
Here’s a video here which might also help you.
If they get scared one year, will they always respond this way?
Possibly, but it will depend on the severity of the scare and your actions in response to it. Your relationship with your dog provides consistency in the middle of unexpected events (and noises) they experience in their life.
If your dog has been scared by a firework, it’s a good idea to start work desensitising to the noise early. With patient work and training, they’ll often be fine the next time they hear them.
How do I help my rescue dog during fireworks?
It might be you have a rescue dog or a dog who experienced trauma in their early life. In this case, fear responses may be more deeply ingrained. Here, some desensitisation may be useful, but as part of a wider training programme rooted in reward, safety and consistency.
We’ve got lots of experience working with dogs with different backgrounds. For some, they may always battle with a sense of fear. Your work during firework celebrations will be key to make sure feeling of safety outweigh the fear. Keep reading below for strategies.
You may also want to look at the story of how Poppets Dog Training began, when a meeting with very poorly rescue dog changed everything.
What signs shall I look out for that my dog is scared?
All dogs are different, and you’ll know your dog best, but look out for changes in panting, shaking, barking and whining.
You may also see them finding places to hide, having stomach upsets or seeking extra comfort from you.
If they are looking to hide, it maybe you need to get down the side of the sofa with them, or just offer a reassuring hand. Don’t leave them alone but keep providing the safety they’re craving and tells them they’re not in danger.
How can I look after my dog during firework displays?
You know, your dog is an active member of your family. They are always speaking to you. You’ll need to give them lots of time and focus during bonfire night and meet them ‘where they are at,’ by finding what works for them:
What are they telling you? If they want to make a den, make them a den – fun is always a great focus.
Try having the TV, radio or music on to drown the noise – there are radio stations that offer music to calm pets during fireworks.
Have the lights on and the curtains closed – make the safety of their home space the focus.
Ensure toileting during daylight to reduce the chances of being caught out – if they’re inside, you limit the unexpected.
Plan long walks during the day – if they’re tired by the evening, they’ll be more ready to relax.
Use activities to keep them occupied like Stuffed Kongs or Lick Mats – food and activity are a great comfort.
You can download this as a free PDF guide.
Are there any specific techniques or soothing aids?
There are lots of natural remedies – some work for some dogs and not others. Ultimately, if it is safe and works for your dog then use it.
You can also speak to a vet for advice. Some dogs do need medical intervention and are prescribed medicine to help them cope. Alongside this, the techniques described above are important.
Is it ok to change a dog’s sleep routine if they are scared during fireworks?
Yes, if they need to, as they may want to be near you for comfort.
Think about how you’d look after a poorly child. One night is not going to undo other good work you’ve done on routines. Fear is more likely to.
How do I make my house as safe a place as possible during fireworks?
When the unexpected is happening elsewhere, make your house a predictable space.
Ensure doors can’t be pushed open and windows are closed. It isn’t good if the noise or frightening stimuli unexpectedly ‘appears’ in your dog’s space.
If you do need to open the door, make sure your dog is on a lead or in another room.
How should I respond when my dog looks to me for reassurance?
Your response is so very important. When we work with a dog and their family at Poppets, we say from the start, “The dog training is for all of you.”
Reassure them, they are looking to you for comfort.
Use a low soothing voice and soothing slow contact stroking. Be confident in yourself and how you are talking.
Your consistent voice and behaviour will become the louder sound in the room. With you there, your dog will know, “I am safe.”
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We’ll be posting again soon to give you even more insight into force-free training and the research behind best-practice methods. Find us on Facebook, or check out the blog page.
Do you have questions about Poppets Dog Training and what we're doing across Nuneaton and Warwickshire... or just need a bit of help?
Get in touch - I’d love to meet you and your four-legged friend.
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