Why Are Fireworks Noises So Much Worse For Dogs?

Fireworks noises for dogs can be incredibly scary and threatening! But, if you understand why your dog is afraid, you can provide comfort and reassurance to your pooch.

Why Are Fireworks Noises So Scary For Dogs?

Your dog is an incredible animal! With super-sensitive hearing, protective instincts and strong loyalty, your dog is a protector, carer - and of course, a best friend!

But while your doggo's amazing senses help them be a super companion, they can also make your pet much more sensitive to loud noises, such as fireworks.

So what causes our dogs to be frightened by fireworks? What are they experiencing and feeling? Why do they react the way they do, and more importantly, how can we help them feel calmer?

Here are a few reasons why fireworks noises are so scary for dogs:

Fireworks are loud!

It may seem obvious, but fireworks are very loud! Your dog's super-sensitive hearing can make the noises feel much worse and incredibly scary!

With their incredible ears, your dog will also be able to hear loud noises from much further away than you can - what you can hear at 20 feet, your dog can hear from 80 feet away! Dogs really are amazing!

But, whether it's thunder or fireworks; loud and unexpected noises can trigger an anxious reaction, even if it doesn't sound so loud to you.

Your dog is reacting to a perceived threat

Has your dog ever tried to run and hide when faced with something loud? If so, that's a normal, survival response. For them, the noise is a real threat!

As humans, we know why fireworks are happening, what they are and, often, when they'll occur. But for dogs, fireworks seem random, surprising and threatening. So we can't blame them for reacting as though they are in serious danger; seeking shelter and hiding.

Your dog feels trapped

When a dog feels threatened by loud noises, they might experience a 'flight' response, and want to run away and escape! But when they're inside, there may be nowhere to go. This can make your dog feel vulnerable, trapped and even more scared - they just want to get away from the noise!

If your dog isn't a fan of noise, try to remove them from the situation beforehand if you know that fireworks are coming up.

If that's not an option, masking the noise of fireworks, distracting them, and taking steps to make your home feel as reassuring as possible will help to calm and relax your dog.

Helping Your Dog

If your dog is affected by fireworks or a fear of loud noises, luckily there are many ways to help them.

Making your dog a den or 'safe place', providing them with a comfy bed or crate, and distracting them with toys and food can be a great way to keep them calm. Your furry friend will also feel reassured if you talk to them, pet them and play with them to distract from any scary noises!

For more expert advice download our FREE ebook and learn how to desensitise your dog to loud noises.

With step by step guides and positive training tips and techniques, you'll find out how to reduce your dogs long-term fear of fireworks. Start now and help your pet build up tolerance to loud, unexpected noises and be rewarded with a calmer pet come fireworks season.

Take a look at our Calming Music for Dogs Playlist on YouTube for 15 hours of relaxing sounds.

For an immediate calming affect, try ADAPTIL Chews, which are perfect to use in times of increased stress. Especially formulated for dogs, the soft chew is composed of calming ingredients, give 30 mins before the expected event.

Using ADAPTIL Calm Home Diffuser plugged in near to your dog's 'safe space' can also enhance their comfort and security. The diffuser sends comforting messages that help to reassure and relax your dog, and make fireworks a much more manageable experience!

Try ThunderShirt - An Effective Solution to Relax Stressed Dogs

Wrap your dog with love in a ThunderShirt- ThunderShirt provides gentle, calming pressure around your dog's torso, much like swaddling a baby. This is proven to help soothe their anxiety when fireworks are happening.

Of course, if your dog still shows severe fear signs despite these tips, be sure to consult your veterinarian for additional help.

Follow our advice for fireworks fears and you will be better able to support your dog should they get stressed. Check out our other informative and helpful blogs on this topic. Or sign up to our newsletter to stay up to date with all the latest ADAPTIL guides and info!