How to calm and comfort your dog on Bonfire Night

Bonfire Night, while a beloved tradition in the UK, can be a stressful time for dogs. The loud bangs, bright lights, and sudden noises from fireworks can cause anxiety and discomfort for many pets, especially those who are naturally sensitive to sound. Here’s a guide to help dog owners manage their pets’ anxiety and make Bonfire Night as comfortable as possible.

1. Create a Safe Space at Home

A "safe haven" can be incredibly calming for an anxious dog. Choose a quiet area in your home, away from windows and doors where fireworks are likely to be most audible. You can create a cozy den with blankets and their favorite toys, or let them go to a familiar hiding place they’re comfortable with.

Consider using:

• A covered crate: Cover it partially with a blanket to create a den-like atmosphere.

• Soft bedding: Adding a familiar blanket or bedding with their scent can offer extra comfort.

• Noise-buffering items: Adding cushions around their space can help muffle outside sounds.

2. Plan Ahead with Calming Products

A range of products on the market can help alleviate anxiety in dogs. Some tried and tested options include:

• Calming collars and sprays: These often use pheromones (like Adaptil) that mimic a mother dog’s comforting scent. They’re designed to help dogs relax naturally.

• ThunderShirts: These snug-fitting shirts apply gentle pressure that can provide comfort, similar to swaddling a baby.

• Calming supplements: Options such as CBD oil, chamomile treats, or vet-approved calming tablets can offer extra support. Be sure to consult with a vet before trying any new supplements.

3. Engage in Pre-Fireworks Exercise

A tired dog is often a calm dog. Giving your dog a long walk or engaging in a play session earlier in the day will help expend extra energy, which may reduce their anxiety. Try to finish these activities before dusk to avoid any early fireworks that might disrupt your plans.

4. Desensitization with Background Noise

To buffer the sounds of fireworks, try using ambient noise or white noise in the house:

• Turn on the TV or radio: Choose a calming show or classical music to help mask outdoor noises.

  • Dogs Trust have partnered with Magic Radio to provide the perfect playlist to help calm dogs that find the noise of fireworks distressing.  

  • Sky TV and Now have also teamed up with Dogs Trust to launch a dedicated pop-up TV channel designed to help our four-legged friends stay calm during the potentially stressful period. The aptly named 'BonfireNight' channel will feature a range of soothing, funny and distracting movies specifically curated for dogs to enjoy with their owners, helping to ease anxiety triggered by loud noises.

• Play white noise or calming music: Pet-calming music tracks are available on Spotify or YouTube, specially curated to soothe dogs.

5. Practice Calming Techniques During Fireworks

If your dog becomes visibly anxious during fireworks, try to stay calm and use gentle methods to reassure them.

• Avoid forced comforting: Some dogs feel more stressed if they sense that their owner is also tense. Instead, act normally to reassure your dog that everything is okay.

• Offer treats and distractions: A long-lasting chew toy or a Kong filled with treats can keep their mind occupied.

• Stay close but not smothering: Let them come to you for comfort if they need it, but don’t pressure them to interact.

For more information and professional advice, consider speaking with your vet or an accredited dog trainer. With these tips and resources, you and your dog can navigate Bonfire Night with confidence.