Bonfire Night can be a really magical evening for humans… but for many dogs, the loud bangs, unexpected flashes and unfamiliar smells can be really overwhelming.

If your dog struggles with fireworks, you’re not alone. Lots of dogs find it scary — and it’s completely understandable. They don’t know it’s “just fireworks”. To them, it’s loud, unpredictable noise coming from the sky… and that’s a lot for little brains to cope with.

One of the most helpful things we can do is stay calm and relaxed ourselves. Dogs are incredibly good at reading our body language and energy. If we tense up, hold our breath or constantly scan for the next bang, they feel that too.

Taking a breath, staying soft in your body, and showing your dog that you’re calm and in control can go a long way in helping them feel safe. 💛

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✅ Tips to Help Your Dog Feel Safe on Bonfire Night

🕓 Walk before dark

A nice sniffy walk earlier in the day helps them settle later on and avoids fireworks catching them outside.

🏠 Create a cosy safe space

Think blankets, a covered crate (if they like crates), or a quiet den-like area where they can retreat and relax.

🔊 Use background sound

Calming music, the radio or the TV can help mask sudden bangs.

🧡 Comfort your dog if they need you

You cannot reinforce fear by comforting a frightened dog. If they come to you, stay calm, speak softly, stroke them if they enjoy it, and be their safe person.

🍖 Offer calming enrichment

Lick mats, stuffed Kongs, chews, or a gentle scent game can help encourage relaxation and keep their focus away from outside.

🚪 Keep the home secure

Double-check doors, windows and garden gates — fireworks can spook dogs into trying to escape.

💊 For severe worry

If your dog finds fireworks extremely distressing, don’t wait — speak to your vet ahead of time. There is help available.

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🌱 Building Confidence Long-Term

Fireworks aren’t just a one-night event anymore — so it’s helpful to work on sound confidence gradually, outside of firework season.

🎧 Gradual positive sound exposure

Sound-therapy programmes (like the one from Dogs Trust) can be brilliant tools.
Play firework or thunder noises at a very low level, and pair with:

✨ treats
✨ calm play
✨ relaxed activities

Slowly build your dog’s comfort over time. Always go at your dog’s pace.

🧺 Practice a “calm routine”

Create a little ritual they recognise, such as:

Safe space → calming music → lick mat/chew → gentle praise

If your dog already knows this routine before fireworks happen, it becomes a comforting pattern on noisy nights.

🧠 Confidence-building activities

Short training sessions, fun problem-solving games and predictable routines all help dogs develop emotional resilience — so scary moments feel less overwhelming.

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🧡 Final Thoughts

Fireworks can be tough for dogs, and it’s okay if your dog struggles. You’re not doing anything wrong — and your support means the world to them.
On nights like these, the most powerful thing you can offer is reassurance, routine and calm presence.

Wishing you and your dog a peaceful, cosy Bonfire Night 🐶✨