For us, Bonfire Night means sparklers, toffee apples and gasps of "ooh" under a sky full of colour. For our dogs, it can be the scariest night of the year.
Dogs hear sounds far more intensely than we do, so every bang, crackle and whistle can feel overwhelming. And because fireworks start popping off weeks before 5th November, the stress doesn't just last one night. š
The good news? With a little preparation, you can make a real difference to how your dog copes. This guide covers everything you need, from getting ready in the weeks ahead to settling your dog on the night itself.
Signs Your Dog Is Scared of Fireworks
Some dogs make their fear obvious, while others show it in quieter ways. Keep an eye out for:
š¾ Trembling or shaking
š¾ Hiding behind the sofa, under the bed or in a corner
š¾ Panting, pacing or not being able to settle
š¾ Barking, whining or howling
š¾ Clinging to you or following you from room to room
š¾ Tail tucked, ears flat back or a low body posture
š¾ Trying to escape, dig or chew their way out
š¾ Going off their food or having toilet accidents indoors
If you spot any of these, your dog isn't being naughty. They're frightened and they need your help to feel safe. š
Before Bonfire Night: How to Prepare
The earlier you start, the better. Here's what to do in the weeks leading up to 5th November.
1. Create a safe den š” Choose a quiet spot in your home, ideally an inner room away from windows. Add a cosy bed, a soft blanket and a favourite toy, and let your dog get used to it now so it already feels like their safe place on the night. A covered bed like the Calming Dog Cave Bed š is perfect for dogs who love to hide.
2. Get them used to the sounds š Play firework sound effects at a very low volume while your dog is relaxed, eating or playing. Over a few weeks, slowly increase the volume. Stop straight away if they seem worried, and go back to a lower level next time.
3. Check their microchip and ID tag š·ļø Frightened dogs can bolt, so make sure your dog's microchip details are up to date and their collar has an ID tag with your name and address.
4. Make your garden escape-proof š³ Check fences and gates for gaps. Even the calmest dog can squeeze through a tiny space when panicked.
5. Speak to your vet early š©ŗ If your dog has struggled badly in previous years, book in with your vet a few weeks ahead. They can talk you through the best options for your dog.
On the Night: How to Keep Your Dog Calm
1. Walk them early š Take your dog for a good long walk while it's still light, before the fireworks start. Keep them on a Waterproof Dog Lead š even in places they'd normally run free, just in case an early firework goes off.
2. Feed them before dark š½ļø A full tummy helps dogs feel more settled, and many dogs won't eat once the bangs begin.
3. Shut out the noise and flashes šŖ Close windows, doors and curtains before dusk. Pop the TV or some calming music on to soften the sound of the bangs.
4. Keep them indoors šŖ Take your dog out to the garden for a toilet break before the fireworks start, and keep them on a lead if you need to go out later. Keep cat flaps and doors closed, and be careful when answering the door.
5. Let them hide šļø If your dog wants to hide behind the sofa or curl up in their den, let them. Never drag them out, as it's their way of coping.
6. Comfort them, calmly š It's absolutely fine to comfort your dog if they come to you. Stay calm, speak softly and stroke them gently. Your relaxed energy helps them feel safe.
7. Never tell them off š Scared behaviour isn't bad behaviour. Telling them off will only make them more frightened.
8. Don't leave them alone š If you can, plan to stay home on the busiest firework nights so your dog isn't facing the bangs on their own.
Calming Essentials That Help š
A few cosy, comforting extras can make a big difference to how safe your dog feels this Bonfire Night.
Calming Dog Cave Bed š With its soft, raised sides and cosy hood, this bed gives anxious dogs the snug, hidden-away feeling they naturally look for when they're scared. It's the perfect centrepiece for their safe den. Available in caramel, grey and brown.
Calming Heartbeat Comfort Plush š This cuddly plush has a gentle heartbeat that helps your dog feel they're not alone. It's ideal for dogs who get anxious when the bangs start. Available in dog and bear designs, with a simple on/off button. The plush is machine washable once the heartbeat unit is removed, and AAA batteries aren't included.
Soft Fleece Pet Blanket š Drape it over their bed or den to create a cosy, covered space that muffles noise and blocks out flashes. Soft, warm and with a sweet paw print and bone pattern, it's a lovely comfort all winter long.
Calming Dog Hoodie š Think of it as a hug your dog can wear. This soft, plush hoodie gives a gentle, snug fit across their body, which many dogs find comforting, and the hood can be pulled up to help muffle sudden bangs and flashes. It's warm and cosy for chilly November evenings too, from their early walk to settling down for the night. Available in sizes XS to XXXL.
Calming Dog Collar š Infused with calming pheromones, this collar offers gentle, continuous support for up to 30 days, so you can pop it on in the run-up to Bonfire Night and leave it in place through the busiest firework weeks. It's adjustable, water resistant and as simple as putting on a collar.
Treat-Storing Chew Toy š A long-lasting chew is a brilliant way to keep your dog busy and focused on something positive while the fireworks go off outside.
After the Fireworks
Fireworks often carry on for days, and sometimes weeks, around Bonfire Night. Keep your dog's routine and safe den in place until things are properly quiet again.
The morning after, check your garden for spent fireworks and debris before letting your dog out, as these can be dangerous if chewed or swallowed. š
When to speak to your vet š©ŗ If your dog is extremely distressed, hurts themselves trying to escape, or is still anxious days after the fireworks have stopped, speak to your vet. They can help you put a plan in place well before New Year's Eve.
Give Your Dog a Calmer Bonfire Night š¾
Loved this guide? Share it with a fellow pet owner who needs it! š¾
Ready to help your dog feel safe and calm this Bonfire Night? Browse our full range at Urban Pet Shop š
Shop now at UrbanPetShop š
š Free UK shipping on all orders over Ā£24.99
š·ļø Sale now on ā up to 35% off sitewide
šļø Up to 45% off our cat and dog beds collection ā limited time only!
š More sales on selected items coming soon ā keep your eyes peeled!
āØ All discounts automatically applied at checkout ā no code needed!
Leave a comment
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.