Fireworks Night: How to Keep Your Dog Calm and Happy When the Sky Lights Up

Fireworks night is a much-anticipated event for many, but for our dogs, those loud, unexpected bangs can feel more like an unwanted invasion than a celebration. If your dog is sensitive to noise, it’s natural to want to ease their anxiety, and while we can’t stop the fireworks from going off, there are ways to make this annual spectacle far less stressful for our dogs.

At Digby, we believe every dog deserves to feel safe and secure, even when the world outside is making a racket. So, here are a few tips to help keep your dog calm during fireworks night, because a relaxed dog means a happy owner.

1. Create a Safe Space for Your Dog

Think of your home as your dog’s sanctuary. When the sky starts to crackle, create a cosy den where they can retreat. This could be a quiet room or a corner draped with blankets to muffle the sound. Fill the space with their favourite toys and perhaps even an old jumper that smells like you. It’s about giving them a sense of comfort in an otherwise overwhelming environment.

2. Use Soothing Sounds to Distract

Fireworks are loud, so why not drown out those bangs with some calming background noise? A bit of classical music, white noise, or even the gentle hum of a fan can help reduce the impact of the sounds outside. Think of it as setting the mood for a relaxing evening indoors, rather than a battle with the elements outside.

3. Introduce Calming Scents with Digby Soothe Spray

When the world outside gets a little too much, the right scent can do wonders for your dog’s anxiety. Our Digby Soothe Spray, infused with chamomile and lavender, has been crafted to calm and relax even the most nervous dogs. Simply mist a little around your dog’s favourite resting spot before the fireworks begin. Chamomile and lavender are known for their calming properties, and with Digby Soothe Spray, you’re giving your dog a gentle nudge towards serenity, without the need for anything unnatural.

4. Stay Close, But Stay Calm

Dogs often look to their owners for cues on how to react to the world around them. If you’re tense, they’ll pick up on it. So, sit back, stay relaxed, and offer comfort without fussing too much. A calm stroke, a reassuring word, and your presence are often all they need to know everything’s going to be okay. Remember, you’re their ultimate source of comfort.

5. Try Gentle Play or a Tasty Distraction

Distraction can be a powerful tool in calming an anxious dog. If your dog is food-motivated, try giving them a long-lasting chew or puzzle toy to keep them focused on something positive. Alternatively, a gentle game of tug or fetch indoors can redirect their energy away from the bangs outside. It’s all about creating an alternative reality for them, one that’s filled with fun and safety.

6. Exercise Earlier in the Day

A tired dog is a calmer dog. Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise earlier in the day before the fireworks begin. A long walk or a good play session will not only burn off excess energy but may also help them settle down easier when the noise starts. After all, it’s much easier to relax when you’re nicely worn out!

Fireworks Don’t Have to Be Frightening

Fireworks night doesn’t have to be a source of stress for your dog. With the right preparation – a cosy space, calming scents like Digby Soothe Spray, and plenty of reassurance – you can help your dog stay calm and comfortable, no matter what’s happening outside. It’s about giving them the security they crave, while reminding them that their home is a safe, comforting place to be.

And if all else fails, a little cuddle goes a long way.