Bonfire Night might be a highlight of the autumn calendar for people, but for dogs, it’s often the opposite, loud bangs, flashing lights, and the smell of smoke can make it one of the most stressful nights of the year. According to the RSPCA, over 60% of dog owners report that their pets show signs of distress during fireworks season. Fortunately, there’s plenty you can do to keep your four-legged friend calm, safe, and comfortable.

Create a calm space indoors

The first step is making your home feel like a secure haven. Dogs naturally seek out quiet, enclosed spaces when they’re scared, so help them find one before the fireworks start.

• Choose a room furthest from the noise, ideally one with curtains or blinds you can close.
• Add familiar items like their bed, toys, and a piece of your clothing to help them feel reassured.
• Turn on the TV or radio to muffle sudden bangs and distract them with background noise.
• If you know your dog is particularly anxious, consider using a thunder shirt or calming wrap. These apply gentle pressure and can work wonders for some dogs.

The Dogs Trust has a great guide on creating a “safe space”, they even suggest introducing the den a few weeks early so your dog associates it with positive feelings.

Timing is everything

When fireworks start can vary by area, but most displays happen between 6 and 9pm on Bonfire Night weekend. Try to:

• Walk your dog early before it gets dark, ideally before sunset.
• Feed them a little earlier too; a full stomach can make them feel more relaxed and sleepy.
• Make sure they’ve had plenty of exercise during the day, as a tired dog is generally a calmer one.

If you’re not sure when displays are happening locally, check your local council’s website or community Facebook groups. Knowing in advance lets you plan walks and bathroom breaks before the noise begins.

Keep them secure and indoors

It’s not uncommon for frightened dogs to bolt during fireworks. In fact, The Kennel Club reports an increase in missing dogs around Bonfire Night each year. To prevent escapes:

• Keep all doors, windows, and garden gates closed.
• Make sure your dog’s microchip details are up to date, you can check through the Petlog database.
• Avoid letting them out unsupervised, even for a quick toilet break. If they must go out, use a lead and stay close.

For added peace of mind, a pet GPS tracker, like our GPS Dog Tracker, can be a real lifesaver. It allows you to locate your dog instantly if they manage to escape, even when it’s dark or noisy outside.

Distract and comfort, but don’t overdo it

Your instinct might be to shower your dog with comfort if they seem scared, but constant fussing can sometimes reinforce the idea that there’s something to worry about. The key is balance:

• Stay calm and act normally, dogs pick up on your emotions.
• Offer a high-value chew or treat toy, like a stuffed Kong, to keep them distracted.
• Play familiar games or practice training commands to shift their focus.

For extra support, some owners find that pheromone diffusers such as Adaptil can help create a calming environment.

Consider sound therapy and desensitisation

If your dog struggles every year, it might be worth starting a long-term plan. Desensitisation programmes use controlled recordings of fireworks to gradually help dogs get used to the sound.

You can find free, RSPCA-endorsed recordings through Sounds Scary, a project designed by veterinary behaviourists to help pets overcome firework fears. Just remember to start training months in advance for the best results.

A few extra safety checks

Fireworks aren’t the only risk on Bonfire Night. Keep an eye out for these too:

• Avoid leaving your dog alone at home if possible, even the calmest pets can panic when alone.
• Keep curtains drawn and lights on to mask flashes.
• Never take your dog to a fireworks display, even if they seem fine with loud noises.
• If you host your own bonfire, make sure no pets or wildlife are hiding in the woodpile before lighting it. Hedgehogs are especially at risk.

If your dog really struggles

For dogs with severe anxiety, it’s worth speaking to your vet well before Bonfire Night. They may recommend:

• Prescription calming medication or supplements
• Behavioural therapy from a qualified trainer or behaviourist
• Tailored anxiety plans based on your dog’s temperament and medical history

Your vet can also advise on whether short-term sedatives or pheromone products might help.

A safe and calm Bonfire Night is possible

Bonfire Night doesn’t have to be a nightmare for dogs. With preparation, patience, and a few practical steps, you can help your furry friend feel secure no matter how loud the celebrations get.

Plan early, keep them close, and remember, to them, those fireworks don’t mean celebration, just confusion. So while the sky lights up, make their world as calm and quiet as possible.

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