05/11/2026
Firework night can be a stressful experience for many dogs, and while we can't always control what's happening around them, there are plenty of things we can do to help reduce that stress and support them through it.
A few things worth putting in place:
Walk earlier in the day: Get your dog's exercise and toilet breaks done before fireworks are likely to start.
Create a safe space: Give your dog somewhere comfortable and familiar where they can go if they feel overwhelmed.
Close windows and curtains: Help reduce both the noise and flashes of light.
Use background noise: TV, music or white noise can help soften the sound of fireworks.
Keep them secure: Use a lead inside and/or outside, check gates and make sure microchip details are up to date. Even normally reliable dogs can react unexpectedly when startled.
Use your training: Don't underestimate the value of the work you've already put into your dog. Familiar obedience exercises, foodwork and play can all be useful ways to engage with them, give them something positive to focus on and help build confidence.
Give them opportunities to succeed: If your dog is comfortable engaging, use simple activities they already understand. Small wins, positive experiences and achievable challenges can help them develop confidence in situations they might otherwise find difficult.
Be there for them: If your dog needs reassurance, give it. If they need space, allow it. There is no benefit in forcing interaction when they're really struggling.
It's important to remember that reducing stress and building confidence aren't mutually exclusive.
We don't need to avoid every situation our dogs find difficult, but we do need to recognise when they're struggling and make sure we're setting them up to succeed rather than simply expecting them to cope without any previous work in this environment.
Our job is to help our dogs feel safe in the moment while giving them the skills and confidence to handle more of what life throws at them.
