It used to be that fireworks were only heard on and around 5th November in the UK.
But times have changed. Now, fireworks are part of birthdays, weddings, festivals, Diwali, Ramadan, Christmas, New Year – in short, they can happen any time of year.
For our dogs and us their caregivers, this unpredictability can make things even harder.
That’s why preparation is crucial. And the time to start is now – not when you hear the first bang.
Train for the Situation, Not in the Situation
There’s a saying that you may have heard from your dog trainer which is
“Train for the situation, not in the situation.”
Introducing calming strategies while fireworks are already going off is too late.
Instead, start weeks in advance to create positive associations your dog can rely on when things get loud.
The Dog's Trust have a useful resource that includes their ' Sounds Scary' Tracks- Sounds Scary can help your dog deal with distressing noises such as fireworks. Sounds Scary is backed by years of clinical experience and is also scientifically proven to be safe, effective and easy to use. Find it HERE
Preparing Your Dog
1. Safe Spaces
Does your dog have somewhere they feel secure?
For some, it’s a covered crate. For others, a spot behind the sofa, or even a quiet bathroom with no windows. Wherever it is, make sure your dog always has free access to this space – never block it off.
Adding blankets over crates or favourite hidey-holes can help reduce sound and create an extra layer of comfort.
2. Enrichment Training – Start Today!
Enrichment toys such as Lick Mats and KONG toys are brilliant for soothing anxious dogs.
But this is the important part : don’t wait until fireworks start to use them.
If your dog’s first ever lick mat appears on bonfire night, they may associate it with fear rather than comfort. Instead, introduce these calming tools now. That way, when fireworks happen, your dog already knows:
“fireworks( or scary noise) = something good is coming.”
If you have prepared your dog to expect an enrichment toy or treat when they hear fireworks, then you had better be prepped and ready.
Preparing Your Home
-
Pre-load enrichment: The last thing you want when fireworks start is to be scrambling for your dog’s lick mat or searching for toppings or trying to stuff enrichment toys like the well known KONG
-
Use sound: Calming music such as Classic FM’s Pet Classics or Music Through a Dog's Ear (Just ask Alexa) can help mask outside noise.
-
Get ahead: Chop pate into treat-sized chunks, prep Lick Mats and toys in advance, and make sure everything you need is easy to grab.
Be Firework Ready with the No Fuss Ready Rak
To make life easier, we’ designed the No Fuss Ready Rak.
-
Holds up to 4 Lick Mats (fridge & freezer friendly).
-
Hygienic, space-saving, and perfect for batch-prepping.
-
Removable shelves so it can hold other enrichment toys too.
With a Ready Rak, you can prep once and relax, knowing you’ve always got calming tools ready when your dog needs them.
Pair it with our Training Treat Chopper and Prep ’n’ Go Bags, and No Fuss Fill and it will make it easy to prep for a stress-free firework nights.
Extra Support
Some dogs may also benefit from calming aids or supplements, which can be started now to help them cope.
Always consult your vet if your dog shows signs of extreme distress – they can advise on safe options, and may refer you to a Clinical Animal Behaviourist.
Making a Difference
You can also support the RSPCA’s #BangOutOfOrder campaign, which is pushing for better firework regulations to protect animals.
✅ Remember: The time to prepare your dog is now. When the skies light up and the bangs begin, you’ll both be glad you started early.
