Bonfire Night might be a time for sparklers, fireworks and fun – but for our furry friends, it can be one of the most stressful nights of the year. Loud bangs, flashing lights and unusual smells can leave dogs feeling anxious and afraid.
Whether you’re celebrating or staying cosy indoors, here are some useful tips to help your dog stay calm, safe and happy this Bonfire Night.
1. Don’t Leave Them Alone
If you can, try to stay home with your dog on Bonfire Night and ideally a few nights either side (as unfortunately fireworks don’t stop at November 5th). Your presence can make a huge difference – dogs feel much safer and more relaxed when their favourite human is by their side. Even if you’re just curled up on the sofa watching a film, your calm company provides reassurance that everything is okay.
If you know fireworks are likely to be set off nearby, plan ahead so you can be there during the peak times. Cancel any non-essential plans or arrange to celebrate earlier in the day.
For those times when you absolutely can’t be at home, see if a trusted friend, family member, or pet sitter can stay with your dog. It’s important they’re not left to face the noise alone, especially if they’re prone to anxiety.
2. Create a Safe Space
Set up a comforting hideaway where your dog can retreat if they’re feeling anxious – a quiet room, cosy den or crate covered with a blanket to muffle sounds. Pop in their favourite bed, toys and maybe a piece of your clothing that smells like you.
We love this grey Ralph & Co crate bed, as it is memory foam and the cover can be removed for easy washing. Pop their matching luxury blanket over the top for the perfect cosy den.
3. Drown Out the Noise
Close windows, draw curtains and play soothing background noise. Gentle music, white noise, or even the TV can help mask the sound of fireworks. There are even dog-calming playlists on Spotify!
Generally, we would recommend staying with your dogs and making noise to take the attention away from the fireworks. A great excuse to get some friends over for a games night, or have a movie night in.
4. Walk Early
Get your walk done before it gets dark. Heading out earlier will help your dog feel safer and avoid sudden loud noises. Go for a longer walk too… The more tired your pup is, the more relaxed they should be. Even if it’s raining or muddy, get those wellies on and enjoy the great British countryside.
5. Stay Calm Yourself
Dogs often mirror our emotions. Try to stay relaxed and cheerful, reassuring your pup without making too much fuss. A calm presence can work wonders. Give yourself plenty of time for the evening and avoid stress within the household as much as possible.
6. Try Calming Aids
Consider natural calming remedies, such as diffusers, sprays, or supplements designed to reduce anxiety. Always check with your vet before trying something new.
We recommend the ADAPTIL Thundershirt, or their calming spray, which can be used in the house as well as the car. We’d suggest spraying it on your dog’s blankets before sun sets, so that it works its magic as they get cosy. We also recommend the PAWD Calming Powder.
We spoke to the team at ADAPTIL, who shared their top tip with us:
“Protect, Protect, Protect. Do what you can to make your dog feel as safe and secure as possible. Use the ADAPTIL Calming aids, but also make sure you close the curtains, turn the TV up, get in tasty treats and toys, be there for a hug if they need it. Make sure they have had a nice day time walk to help tire them out”
7. Make Sure They’re Secure
Keep doors, windows and gates closed – and ensure your dog’s ID tag and microchip details are up to date, just in case they panic and try to escape.
If there is any risk of escape, we’d recommend leaving a harness on them for the evening and ideally, a tracker, like this one from Tractive.
8. Keep Treats and Toys Handy
Distraction is one of the best ways to help your dog cope with the sounds of fireworks. Stock up on plenty of tasty treats and their favourite toys to keep them occupied during the evening.
Long-lasting options work best – think LickiMats spread with peanut butter, stuffed KONGs filled with wet food or mashed banana, or natural chews like yak bars and dried treats. These help keep your dog busy for longer, giving them something positive to focus on instead of the bangs outside. Scatter treats around the room for a “find it” game, or hide a few small snacks in rolled-up towels for them to sniff out.
Engaging their brain in fun, rewarding activities not only distracts them from the noise but also helps reduce stress. The key is to make the experience as positive and normal as possible – so the fireworks just become background noise to an otherwise lovely evening of treats and play.
Fireworks may be part of the season, but with a little preparation, you can help your dog feel safe and secure until the sky quiets down again.
If you’ve found a special trick that helps calm your dog, we’d love to hear it! Share your Bonfire Night tips or cosy set-ups with us on Instagram and tag @DogFuriendly!
Dog Furiendly
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