How to Calm Your Dog’s Firework Fear and Anxiety

Certain products can help reduce anxiety in dogs, but always consult your vet before starting any medication.

ADAPTIL and Zylkene are two natural options:

• ADAPTIL: Uses dog appeasing pheromones, secreted naturally by bitches to reassure puppies. Diffusers and collars can help adult dogs feel calmer during stressful times. For best results, plug in the diffuser two weeks before fireworks, ideally where your dog likes to rest. Localised effects are noticeable within 24 hours.

• Zylkene: A natural milk protein that promotes calmness. It has no lactose or flavour, so it’s easy to administer, even sprinkled on dry food.

In severe cases, other prescription medications may be recommended by your vet. These should always be used alongside a behavioural modification programme (BMP) designed by a qualified behaviourist.

Even if your dog’s fear improves, continuing to use ADAPTIL or Zylkene during predictable trigger events (fireworks and festive weekends) is advisable.

Our own behaviour can impact a dog’s anxiety:

• Responding in a worried or panicked way can make your dog more anxious.
• If you remain calm and relaxed, stroking or soothing your dog can be effective.
• If you struggle to stay calm, focus on everyday tasks—watch a movie, do some cooking, or tidying—so your dog learns that fireworks are not a threat.

The key is to avoid fixating on your dog’s anxious behaviour while ensuring they are supported.

A calm environment can significantly reduce stress during fireworks. Here’s how:

Make a Den

• Prepare a den a few days or weeks in advance to prevent your dog associating it solely with fireworks.
•  A sheet over a large coffee table or a tablecloth over the dining table depending on the size of dog can be great to put their bed under. If you are happy using a crate that can be covered but it's important to leave to door open if possible, or try an under-stairs hideaway.
• Hide treats and toys in the den and use calm encouragement when your dog rests there.

Reduce Noise and Light

• Close curtains and double up with sheets if needed.
• Leave a lamp on near windows with a timer to mask visual flashes.
• Play classical music quietly throughout the house. This has been shown to increase rest periods in dogs, though familiar TV or music can also help.

Tips for Diffusers

• ADAPTIL diffusers last one month; refills last one month.
• Replace the entire plug-in every six months.
• Keep them uncovered and free of pet hair for maximum effect.
• Consider running diffusers from mid-October to mid-January to cover Christmas and New Year fireworks.

These techniques are part of a behavioural modification programme and work best with guidance from a qualified behaviourist:

Desensitisation

• Gradually expose your dog to recordings of fireworks under controlled conditions.
• Use commercially available sound CDs/downloads with instructions, such as Sound Therapy 4 Pets or free downloads via Dog Trust.
• Gradual, controlled exposure can provide a long-term solution, though some dogs (around 20%) may require additional behavioural strategies.

Counter-Conditioning

• Train your dog to engage in positive behaviours when they hear trigger sounds.
• This could include relaxation exercises, tummy rubs, interactive games, or treat training.
• Works best when combined with desensitisation for long-term success.