Bonfire Night is a seasonal tradition and a sign of celebration. At this time of year, wrapping up warm to watch a stunning spectacle in the sky is an event to look forward to. But for dogs, fireworks can be a frightening experience. In fact, nearly half (45%) of pooches show signs of fear when they hear loud displays.

While it’s lovely to share certain special moments with our furry friends, it’s important that they enjoy it with us. Whether you’re letting off fireworks in your garden, or simply watching from the window this fireworks night, the experts at Canagan, the grain-free pet food specialists, offer their tips on keeping your dog calm, before and during, a display so you can both enjoy the fireworks season.

Why do dogs fear fireworks?

Like all wild animals, dogs instinctively associate loud noises with danger. Therefore, unexpected bangs or flashes from a fireworks display can leave them feeling stressed and scared.

Dogs possess an acute sense of hearing, which means the sound is amplified – and the intervals between displays can seem even louder and more shocking than they can do to humans.

How do they react to fireworks?

Dogs will instinctively run, without direction or thought. However, this feeling of anxiety may also manifest as restlessness, such as trembling, barking, panting, pacing, whining and howling. Very unsettled dogs will act out, digging at the door, soiling the premises or destroying their owners’ belongings.

Preparing your dog for fireworks season

• De-sensitise them to loud noises in advance: Start playing firework sounds quietly while you’re playing with them in the home, offering treats every so often. Over time, slightly increase the volume. Eventually, your dog will feel safe and will only think of fun, happy moments when they hear the real sound of fireworks
• Engage in activity during the day: Exercise with your dog during the day – whether it’s a long walk, or playing frisbee or fetch – so when the fireworks start, they’re almost too sleepy to notice
• Let them out early: For most of the year it’s against the law to set fireworks off after 11pm. However, this curfew is extended to midnight on Guy Fawkes Night. To ensure your pooch enjoys a full night’s sleep, ensure they have gone to the toilet and eaten before bed. Introduce this earlier regime in the days leading up to your local display so they adjust
• Keep them indoors: To prevent your dog from feeling distressed, or get lost or injured, settle them down at home, in familiar surroundings
• Create a ‘safe space’ in your home: Whether it’s their bed with blankets and soft toys, or a table covered with a sheet, create a comforting space to which they can retreat and relax
• Let them decide where to settle: While your designated ‘safe space’ may look appealing, your pet may prefer snuggling next to you. If you confine your pet to one place, they may grow distressed or hurt themselves trying to flee should they be spooked by your local display
• Draw the curtains: Fireworks flashing across the skies can scare and distract dogs, so shut out the light to create a relaxing environment
• Escape-proof your home: Close all doors and windows, then secure any escape routes in the garden. If you’re hosting, with people coming and going from the house, make it clear that external doors must be opened and shut swiftly to avoid your furry friend making their exit
• A collar and micro-chip are a must: If your dog does dash, a collar with your details and an up-to-date micro-chip will ensure they can easily be traced back to you

How to keep your dog calm during a display

• Mask the sound: Playing the TV or radio – classical music for example is proven to calm dogs – will reduce the impact of loud noises
• Distract them with their favourite food: After each loud blast, hand-feed your dog a tasty snack. Not only will this be a distraction, but they’ll learn to associate a loud blast with a positive experience
• A long-lasting chew toy: Stuffing a chew toy with food will keep their attention and offer a delicious end to the evening
• Act natural: Animals are perceptive, so sense if you’re behaving unusually. If you’re overly affectionate, they may feel unsettled so reassure them by inviting play
• If they join you outside, use a leash: If you’d prefer your dog to accompany you during a fireworks display, keep them close at a leash. Your presence will reassure them, while you’ll have peace of mind knowing they won’t run away. Never tie a fearful dog outdoors and leave them alone. Your pooch may start to experience separation anxiety that’s only intensified by the unexpected, loud noises
• Avoid leaving them alone at home, if possible: Arrange a sitter to look after your dog if you have plans. If you return and your frightened pet has made a mess, don’t shout, as this will only cause confusion and distress. Otherwise, firework displays are just as impressive from a distance!

Huddling by the bonfire with delicious hot food is another highlight of an autumn evening outdoors. If your pet is by your side, it’s all too tempting to slip them a tasty treat. But, did you know that one hot dog for a 9 kg dog breed, like a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, is the caloric equivalent of three hamburgers to a person?

However, some of our favourite festive snacks can be hazardous to our furry friends, and the truth is, we don’t often stop to consider the ramifications a titbit can have on our dogs’ weight, breathing and overall health.

If fireworks are causing your dog high levels of anxiety, seek advice from a behaviourist. De-sensitising your pet to loud noises and flashes takes time and keeping them comfortable is key in protecting their well-being, as well as maintaining calm behaviour. Please make sure they aren’t sneaking a taste of your winter-warming foods either. This is a fun time of year so ensure your dog doesn’t lose their spark.