Why Is My Dog Scared of Fireworks?

Guy Fawkes, New Year’s Eve, Diwali, sports wins: in South Africa, fireworks can go off for days. For many dogs, those bangs are truly terrifying. A little planning can make a huge difference to how your dog gets through the night.

Why fireworks scare dogs

• Super-sensitive hearing: dogs hear far better than we do, so bangs are much louder to them.
• No warning: the noises are sudden and unpredictable.
• They can’t tell it’s safe: to a dog, explosions mean danger.
• Flashes and smells: bright lights and smoke add to the fear.

Before fireworks night

1. Make sure your dog wears an ID tag with your number. Many dogs escape in panic, and shelters fill up after Guy Fawkes and New Year.
2. Check gates, walls and fences for gaps.
3. Set up a safe den indoors: a covered bed in a quiet room, away from windows.
4. Talk to your vet early if your dog has struggled before. They can advise on calming options in good time.

On the night

1. Walk your dog early, before dark.
2. Keep them indoors with windows and curtains closed.
3. Play background noise like music or the TV to soften the bangs.
4. Let them hide. Never drag a scared dog out from under the bed.
5. Stay calm and close. It’s fine to comfort your dog gently. You can’t “reward” fear.
6. Offer a long-lasting chew to help them settle.

When to speak to a vet

If your dog panics badly, injures themselves trying to escape, or the fear lasts for days afterwards, speak to your vet. Never give your dog human calming or sleeping medication.

The heart of it

On the loudest nights of the year, you’re your dog’s safe place. A cosy den, a calm voice and you nearby can turn a night of terror into one they simply get through, and wake up safe at home.