My Dog Is Scared of Fireworks. What Can I Do?

Originally published May 2019. Updated May 2024.

Big scary booms.

Hiding during a storm

I don’t mess around when it comes to fear of fireworks and/or thunderstorms.

These events cause significant and often prolonged distress for the dog, but without control over the Scary Thing or the dog’s exposure, there’s very little I can do.

This makes fear of fireworks and/or thunderstorms unlike a lot of other fears:

• If the dog is scared of garbage trucks, I can skip the walk on garbage day.

• If the dog is scared of the blender, I can put him in the backyard while I make my smoothie.

• If the dog is scared of strangers, I can have him stay with a friend during our party.

But I can’t do anything about the weather or the neighbor’s celebrations.

I can’t turn the volume down.

I can’t put the dog in another room.

I can’t avoid the situation until he’s ready.

I am helpless to substantially help.

It isn’t hopeless.

If your dog is so scared that he is shaking, panting, pacing, trying to hide or otherwise unable to function normally, please talk to your vet about medication options to support your dog.

In my opinion, there is absolutely no reason for any dog to suffer when safe, effective medications are available.

I cannot control the thunder or the fireworks, but I can control my dog’s access to pharmaceutical support.

Once his brain isn’t in Fearing-For-My-Life mode, then you can consider things like playtime, music, and food toys to keep your dog occupied and build positive associations.

What and who?

I’m not a vet so I can’t tell you what medication to ask for, but I can encourage you to work with a behavior-savvy vet who is familiar with ALL the options and their applications.

Locally, I recommend Dr Krista Sirois at Paz West.

Even if you’ve tried medication before and weren’t satisfied, reach out to Paz! It’s a complex topic that doesn’t come standard with a DVM.

“What about CBD?”

It’s always my goal to limit the amount of distress in a dog’s life. If you try CBD and your dog is still distressed, it’s time to move to other options.