The Fourth of July is coming up fast, and you know what that means—time to start planning your cookout! 

After you’ve packed the cooler, it’s time to make a checklist for your best furry friend. Yes, the one that’s usually hiding under the bed as soon as the sun goes down. Even if your dogs and fireworks don’t mix, you can still make sure they have a good time this Independence Day.

Why are dogs scared of fireworks? We’ll answer that question and suggest a few ways to help your pup feel less anxious. 

Why Are Dogs Scared of Fireworks?

If you’ve only had anxiety-prone dogs or if this is your first dog, you may think all dogs are scared of fireworks. It makes sense. Fireworks are loud and unpredictable, and dogs have no way of knowing that they don’t pose a real threat. 

But many dogs don’t mind fireworks or loud noises. So is it just a personality thing? Why are dogs scared of fireworks while others aren’t?

Dogs and fireworks are a complex combination. One study examined the reactions to loud noises in 17 different dog breeds. Here are some interesting things they learned about dogs and fireworks:

• Older dogs were more afraid of fireworks
• Female dogs and neutered dogs were more likely to be sensitive to loud noises
• Only 23% of the dogs in the study were fearful of loud noises
• Norwegian Buhunds, Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers, and Lagotto Romagnolos had the highest frequency of noise sensitivity 
• Boxers, Chinese Crested, and Great Danes had lower frequencies of fear created by noise

Another study found that dogs’ early environment and exposure to loud noises also play a part in sound sensitivity. 

How to Calm a Dog That’s Scared of Fireworks

Whether you have a dog that starts trembling at the first boom or you’re prepping for your first Fourth of July with your pup, we’ve got some helpful survival tips.

Try calming treats with CBD for dog anxiety.

Treats that use a variety of calming herbs can help support relaxation and a calm mood during fireworks. Pet Releaf Edibites use functional ingredients like chamomile, baobab, and hemp extract, plus a bunch of organic ingredients for a flavorful peanut butter taste. They also offer organic, full-spectrum hemp oil for dogs of all sizes that can help support your dog’s stress levels. CBD for dog anxiety can be helpful for your pup on Fourth of July or nervousness in general. 

Use the same method a mother dog would use–dog appeasing pheromones.

A few days after giving birth, mother dogs release special calming pheromones. Humans can’t smell these chemical messengers, but they have a calming effect on both puppies and adult dogs. You can try out synthetic versions of dog-appeasing pheromones via plug-in diffusers, calming collars, and sprays.

Make your pup feel safe and secure in an anxiety vest.

It’s the same idea as swaddling a baby or wrapping yourself up in a cozy blanket. Dog anxiety vests help your pup feel more secure, which can help calm their anxiety. It’s probably the most natural thing you can do to keep your dog calm, and of course, giving them extra snuggles during the fireworks.

Set up a doggy safe space in your house.

Keep your dog inside during the fireworks, and make sure they have a spot where they feel safe. If your dog already has their own crate where they can come and go, you can put some puzzle treat toys or chew toys inside. This will keep them focused on something enjoyable while they hang out in their safe spot. 

If your dog doesn’t already use a crate, it’s best to set up another type of space. You can get them a cozy new bed or just pile up some clothes you’ve worn–trust us, your dog will love the smell. 

Then, make sure you have some amazing treats and new toys that you only bring out when the fireworks start. Treat toys like KONG or Busy Buddies are great for redirecting anxious dogs. They have to work to get the treat out, focusing their attention on something fun instead of something scary. 

Play some calming music or use white noise.

Can music calm an anxious dog? And if so, what kind of music? Luckily, we have the answers from several studies on how dogs react to music. 

Your best bet is classical music, more specifically solo piano music. Some other good options are reggae and soft rock.

Give them a snuggle buddy with a heartbeat. 

We’re not saying you need to adopt another pet–just a stuffed animal toy that has a heartbeat noise. Some even come with warming packs so it feels like your pup is curled up next to a littermate, mother dog, or best doggy friend. Pet parents swear by these, even for older dogs.

Counterconditioning, aka, sharing some positive vibes with your dog.

A survey that was sent out by the University of Bern’s Companion Animal Behavior Group in Switzerland uncovered the most promising option for helping dogs that are afraid of fireworks. 

Counterconditioning sounds like a fancy therapy word, but it’s just taking a scary situation and making it fun for your dog. According to the survey, giving dogs special playtime, treats, and positive interactions during fireworks had a success rate of 70%. 

Look into getting a few new interactive toys that you can use to play with your pup. It can be super simple, like some new tennis balls or a tug-of-war toy; whatever your dog is really into!

Ask your vet about anxiety meds for dogs. 

If none of these methods have worked, or your dog gets extremely freaked out about lots of other things, ask your vet about anxiety meds for dogs. They can figure out the best plan for your dog based on their current health condition. 

If you follow these tips, you and your best doggy pal will both be ready to have a great Fourth of July!