10 Tips for Keeping Your Dog Calm on Bonfire Night
Hello from all of us at Dog & Bone Grooming here in beautiful Carmarthen! As firework season approaches, it’s a time of fun and sparkle for us humans – but it can be a very different matter for our four‑legged friends. Many dogs find the bangs, flashes and unpredictable noise of fireworks stressful. The good news is: with a bit of planning and gentle care, you can help your dog feel much calmer.
Here are ten friendly, credible tips (with sources) to keep your dog as comfortable and relaxed as possible on fireworks night:
1. Walk early, before dark
Take your dog out for a decent walk while it’s still light, ideally well before any fireworks start. This means they’ve had exercise and a toilet break when things are calmer. PDSA+1
2. Create a safe “den” for them at home
Set up a cosy, quiet space in a room where your dog feels comfortable. A crate or a corner under a table with blankets and their favourite toys works well. PDSA+1
3. Close windows/curtains and mask noise
Loud bangs and bright flashes are part of what scares dogs. Closing curtains or blinds, shutting windows, and playing soothing music or TV helps reduce the intensity. dogstrust.org.uk+1
4. Stay calm yourself & carry on gently
Dogs pick up on our emotions. If you stay calm, talk soothingly, avoid showing you’re stressed, it helps them feel safe. Avoid punishing fearful behaviour – that can make things worse. vets4pets.com+1
5. Keep to your usual routine where possible
Dogs like familiar routines. Try to keep feeding times, walks and rest periods similar. A sudden big change adds stress. Virbac UK
6. Provide distractions and comfort
Give your dog something positive: a chew toy, a stuffed puzzle, gentle play. If they choose to hide, let them; if they come to you for comfort, calmly offer that. PDSA
7. Ensure your garden/home is secure
Fear may make dogs try to bolt. Make sure gates, fences, doors and windows are secure. Also ensure your dog is micro‑chipped and ID tag is up to date. thekennelclub.org.uk+1
8. Prepare in advance for noise sensitivity
If you have time ahead of fireworks season, you can help your dog become less sensitive to loud noise (desensitisation). For example, play recordings of firework sounds at low volume and gradually increase, always with treats and praise. thekennelclub.org.uk+1
9. Know the signs of stress in your dog
Be aware of signs like trembling, panting, hiding, refusing food, or trying to escape. Recognising the signs early helps you intervene. dogstrust.org.uk+1
10. If needed, speak to your vet or behaviourist
If your dog’s fear is severe and these steps don’t help, consult your vet. They may refer you to a behavioural specialist or advise on other safe options. PDSA
We hope these tips give you peace of mind this fireworks season and help your dog feel safe and calm. If you’d like a little extra help or bespoke advice – for example a grooming session in a calm environment ahead of the fireworks nights – we’re here for you.
Dog & Bone Grooming
Hermon Carmarthen, SA33 6SR
Phone: 07852569375
Email: Chris@dogandbonegrooming.co.uk
Fully insured, Level 3 Diploma qualified canine groomer with 20 years’ experience catering for traditional and mixed breeds,
Let’s give our dogs a cosy, calm season 🧡
Dog and Bone Grooming
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