Fireworks season can be challenging for dogs with noise sensitivities, but with preparation and gradual exposure, you can help them build confidence and reduce anxiety.
Our trainer, Amy, shares two effective techniques—desensitisation training and noise games—to help your dog feel calmer around loud noises.
Desensitisation Training for Fireworks Confidence
Desensitisation is a technique that helps your dog grow accustomed to the sounds that previously scared them. By exposing them to low-intensity firework sounds and rewarding calm behaviour, you’re helping them associate those sounds with positive experiences. Here’s how to get started:
Preparation
- Firework Sound Recordings – Find audio recordings of fireworks online to play during training.
- Engaging Activity – Pick an activity your dog enjoys, such as training or an enrichment game.
- High-Value Treats – Use treats that your dog loves for positive reinforcement.
Training Steps
Step 1: Play Sounds at Low Volume
Start by playing the firework sounds at a very low volume while your dog engages in an activity they enjoy. The sounds should be barely noticeable—if they do notice them, mark the behaviour and offer a treat.
Step 2: Gradually Increase Volume
Once your dog is comfortable with the low volume, slowly increase it over several sessions. Remember to move at your dog’s pace—if they show signs of discomfort, lower the volume and continue rewarding calm behaviour.
Starting the desensitisation process several weeks before any anticipated fireworks will allow more time for your dog to adjust and reduce their anxiety over time.
Boosting Confidence with Noise Games
To build your dog’s overall confidence with sounds, noise games are a fantastic tool. Many dogs who are sensitive to fireworks also react to other sudden or unfamiliar noises. By working on their resilience to various sounds, you’ll be setting them up for success when the fireworks start.
Noise games let your dog be in control, which is crucial for helping them feel safe. These games are also great for rebuilding tolerance after firework season. Here’s how to try it out:
Try the Pets Love Fresh Box Game
- Grab a Cardboard Box – Use an old Pets Love Fresh box or any sturdy cardboard box.
- Add Recycling and Treats – Fill the box with safe, clean recyclables and sprinkle in some of their favourite treats.
- Encourage Exploration – Let your dog explore, sniff, and dig through the box at their own pace. The noise of rustling recyclables combined with hidden treats makes this a fun, confidence-building exercise.
Why Desensitisation and Noise Games Work
Gradual exposure and control over sound help to reduce your dog’s negative reactions to noise. The more confidence they build with everyday sounds, the more relaxed they’ll feel when fireworks season arrives.
With a few weeks of preparation, you’ll help them feel calmer, safer, and more secure—even when fireworks light up the sky.
Pets Love Fresh, dog food is an excellent feeding choice, as it contains no preservatives, no cheap fillers that can cause allergies, is gently cooked, and created by a team of nutritionists, dieticians, vets, and pet owners. It provides complete nutrients and vitamins to keep your dog healthy, made with real meat, fresh from British farms.
