How to Help Your Dog During Fireworks Season: Tips from a longtime Havanese breeder
As a longtime Havanese breeder, I’ve spent years surrounded by these loving, intelligent little companions—and one thing I’ve seen time and time again is how distressed dogs can get during fireworks. Whether it’s the Fourth of July, New Year’s Eve, or a local celebration, loud, sudden booms and flashing lights can turn even the calmest pup into a nervous wreck. And while some dogs seem to shake it off, others struggle with real fear and anxiety.
Since the Fourth of July is right around the corner, let me walk you through why dogs—especially small breeds—react so strongly to fireworks, and what you can do to help keep your pup safe and calm when the skies light up.
Why Dogs Are Afraid of Fireworks
Dogs have amazing hearing—far more sensitive than ours. They can hear sounds up to four times farther away than humans. That means the sudden crack or bang of a firework isn’t just loud—it’s startling and possibly painful.
Unlike thunderstorms, which come with natural cues like rising wind or pressure changes, fireworks come out of nowhere. There’s no warning for your dog, just an unexpected explosion of sound and light.
What makes it worse: dogs don’t understand what’s happening. They can’t rationalize the noise the way we can. All they know is that it’s loud, unpredictable, and possibly a threat. That triggers their natural fight or flight response.
How Do You Know Your Dog’s Afraid?
Not all dogs react the same way. Some are unfazed, while others hide in the bathtub or shake uncontrollably. It’s not always about size either—I've seen calm little Havanese and panicked Golden Retrievers.
Common signs of fear include:
Pacing or restlessness
Trembling or shaking
Hiding or seeking shelter (under beds, in closets)
Whining, barking, or howling
Drooling or panting
Destructive behavior (chewing, scratching at doors)
Attempts to escape
If your dog exhibits any of these behaviors during fireworks season, they’re not just being dramatic—they’re genuinely scared. And remember, Havanese are incredibly sensitive to your emotions. If you’re anxious, they likely will be too.
How to Help Your Dog
Fortunately, there’s a lot you can do to make fireworks more manageable for your pup. Here are my top recommendations:
1. Create a Safe Space
Set up a quiet, enclosed area in your home—like a bedroom, bathroom, or crate—where your dog can retreat. Add blankets, play white noise or calming music, and close windows and curtains to block both sound and flashes. A fan or air conditioner can also help with noise and comfort.
2. Stay Calm and Present
This one’s big: your dog takes emotional cues from you. If you’re stressed, they’ll sense it. Stay calm, act normally, and be a comforting presence. You can sit with them, but avoid making too big a fuss. Just be steady and reassuring.
3. Use Calming Products
Some dogs respond well to CBD, calming chews, pheromone diffusers, or thundershirts. Every dog is different, so test what works—without overdoing it.
4. Talk to Your Vet
If your dog’s fear is severe, your vet might recommend short-term anti-anxiety medication. These can make a big difference for dogs who panic. Just be sure to test the medication before the main event to see how your dog reacts.
Two Precautions to Take Before the Fireworks Start
Whether you’re staying home or heading out, take these two important safety steps:
✅ Make Sure Your Home Is Secure
Check for loose screens, gaps in fences, or any escape routes. When dogs panic, they can act fast. Let everyone in the house know to keep gates and doors closed.
✅ Confirm Your Dog’s ID
Double-check that your dog’s tag is attached and accurate, and that your microchip information is up to date. If your dog bolts, you want the best chance to get them home safely.
It’s Not Their Fault—It’s Instinct
Fear of fireworks isn’t a sign of poor training or bad behavior—it’s a natural response. It’s your job to help your dog through it. Be prepared, stay patient, and provide them with comfort and security.
Luckily, it’s usually just one night. 🐾