5 Ways to Keep Your Dog Calm During Fourth of July Fireworks

Unfortunately, Fourth of July is right around the corner. While I have nothing personally against hot dogs and the red, white, and blue color scheme, I've come to resent the holiday because of how freaked out my dog gets during fireworks. She's currently petitioning to make fireworks illegal, and I don't blame her.

According to the American Kennel Club, she’s far from being alone, as surveys have shown that 50 percent of all canine companions dislike fireworks.

Until the government takes my dog's petition seriously, we can’t prevent the colorful explosions from happening in the sky this Fourth of July. However, we can help our furry friends calm down.

Here are five ways that can ease your dog’s anxiety during a fireworks show.

Go on a Long Walk With Your Pup Before the Firework Show Starts

Before the fireworks show starts, you should try to tire out your canine companion by taking your furry friend on a long walk. For my energetic senior pup, she needs at least two miles of walking to even think about taking a nap.

Also, a 2020 study from the University of Helsinki indicated that "Physical exercise has been shown to have a positive effect on the mood in both dogs and humans.”

Now, as a human who suffers from anxiety, I used to resent people who told me exercise would make me feel better. Unfortunately, they were right. And the same goes for your dog.

Using Treats and Games as Distractions

When your furry friend is freaking out, pull out their favorite treats. I don’t know about your pup, but when my dog hears the beautiful crinkles of a treat bag, nothing else in the world matters. Not even terrifying fireworks.

While speaking to Scientific American, Ilana Reisner, a veterinary behaviorist, told pup parents to “stock a treat bag” for their furry friends on the Fourth of July.

“Feed one piece at a time to your dog throughout the fireworks to counter-condition and distract,” said the vet. “If your dog is willing, make a game of it and ask her to sit, down, 'find it', shake hands and other distracting cues. Freeze a Kong with kibble mixed with baby food. Feed dinner through the toy.”

Keep Your Dog Inside During the Fireworks

Unfortunately, quite a few of our furry friends run away on the night of July 4 because they're so terrified. So, it's in everyone's best interest to keep your dog inside when the Fourth of July fireworks festivities begin. I go a step further and stay at home with my dog during the Fourth because I want to be able to comfort her.

Also, making sure your dog is microchipped and wearing a collar with a name tag, just in case they do escape, is a good idea.

Put on Some Calming Music

If you are an audiophile, you may want to start sharing your passion for music with your pup. A 2017 study shows that dogs are less stressed when listening to calming music like jazz or soft rock. Just refrain from playing Metallica, as it may have an adverse effect. Unless, of course, Fluffy happens to be a huge fan of heavy metal.

Talk to Your Vet About Trazodone

While people may be wary of putting their dogs on antidepressants, they can do the trick. If your vet thinks it’s the right decision for your dog, you should go for it. My dog has been prescribed trazodone (aka the ole Trazzy Dazzy) for fireworks and traveling. And let me tell you, it works wonders!

Anxiety, Behavior, Seasonal And HolidaysNicole MooreJune 19, 2026Dog fourth of july, Fourth of July, Holiday, SeasonalComment