Fireworks Desensitization for Dogs

​If you have a dog that hates fireworks, this upcoming holiday weekend is going to be rough for both of you. It can be difficult to watch your dog panic when you can’t explain to them there’s nothing to be afraid of- it’s just noise.

When a dog can’t make sense of a new stimulus in their lives, like loud, percussive fireworks they can feel in their bones, they tend to panic. Unless a dog has been specifically trained to be comfortable around loud noises, fireworks holidays like Independence Day are a big problem.

Here are some tips to help you and your dog weather the storm.

Healing touch therapy is one of my favorites, especially for dogs with over-the-top anxiety. Try to incorporate some relaxing touch therapy into your desensitization sessions. If you are familiar with essential oils, and use a high quality brand like Young Living, then feel free implement some properly diluted calming oils like lavender or frankincense. If you are not familiar with essential oils or their use for pets, then feel free to reach out to an Earthwise Pet pet specialist.

​Start with small objects like the metal pan used here and progress to louder noises as your dog adjusts.

When your dog is ready to progress to Fireworks noises, you can use an app…

​Or use videos from YouTube that feature Fireworks:

This video brings up a valid point. It’s important to use a speaker with bass and a subwoofer so you can recreate the percussing vibrations that occur during real-life fireworks. This sensation may be scarier for some dogs than the actual noise.

If your pup is mildly anxious, try Doggie Dan’s Freeze Hold to help calm your dog.

​Teaching your dog to stay calm around fireworks can sometimes be a lengthy process, so keep calm and be patient.