05/11/2025
How To Manage Firework Anxiety
Experiment with some of these ideas to help your dog relax even when the loud booms of fireworks are going off.
Stay home with your dog (or get a sitter) after dark on big firework holidays like July 4th.
Give him plenty of exercise earlier in the day, so he’s as relaxed as possible.
Get him out to p*e and p**p before the fireworks start.
Feed him earlier too. Lots of dogs aren’t interested in food when they’re scared. And he may get sleepier after a meal.
Keep your dog indoors, preferably in a basement or interior room.
Close your curtains or shades to muffle sound and block out firework flashes.
Play calming music (you can find a lot on YouTube) or keep the TV on.
White noise like the air conditioning or a fan can help.
Try pressure wraps, like a Thundershirt, Anxiety Wrap or T-Touch Wrap. Even a tight t-shirt can help.
Encourage your dog to settle where he feels safest – his crate, favorite bed, or on the sofa with you!
Try distracting him with games, favorite toys, a delicious raw bone or other treats.
Don’t be afraid to pet, massage or snuggle with your dog. Some people claim this reinforces the fear, but usually it just helps your dog feel safer and fall asleep.
If he needs to go out, take him out on a leash … don’t let him loose in your yard where he might panic and escape.
5 Ways To Keep Your Dog Calm During Fireworks and Loud Noises
In addition to the steps above, there are many natural remedies that’ll help take the edge off your dog’s fear of loud noise and fireworks. You can choose from …
Homeopathy
Herbs and calming supplements
Flower remedies (or essences)
Essential oils
CBD Oil