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How to Prepare Your Dog for Fireworks Night: Natural Ways to Keep Them Calm

A firework spectacular might be beautiful for us but for many dogs, they can be terrifying. Loud bangs, flashing lights, and the unpredictable noises can cause stress and anxiety, especially in puppies or dogs who haven’t experienced fireworks before.
Luckily, with a little preparation (and a few natural distractions!), you can help your pup stay relaxed and comfortable.
This guide shares natural ways to prepare your dog for fireworks, including desensitisation tips and how natural dog treats can be used for enrichment and calming focus.
1. Get your dog used to loud noises early
If your dog or puppy has never heard fireworks before, it’s important to gently introduce similar sounds before fireworks season starts.
Try playing firework sound videos on your TV or speaker at a very low volume while your dog is calm or playing. Gradually increase the volume over time, always making sure they stay relaxed and associating the noise with something positive - like a play session or tasty treat.
💡 Tip: Reward calm behaviour with natural treats during this training to create positive associations.
2. Create a calm, safe space
On the night itself, make sure your dog has a comfortable area where they feel safe. Choose a quiet room, close the curtains, and add familiar items like blankets or toys that smell like home.
You can also play soft background noise, such as the TV, radio or white noise, to help muffle the bangs outside.
3. Keep them busy with natural enrichment treats
Dogs often feel calmer when they have something enjoyable to focus on.
Natural treats are a brilliant, healthy way to provide enrichment and help manage anxiety through chewing and licking - two natural soothing behaviours.
Here’s how you can use Barney’s Bundles 100% natural treats to help during fireworks:
Our Variety Bundles are perfect for creating a mix of enrichment treats — combine your dog’s favourites with something new to keep things interesting and occupy them for longer. Mixing up different textures and flavours engages their senses and encourages natural chewing and sniffing behaviours, both of which help reduce stress.

For longer-lasting chews, try beef trachea, pigs ears or a cod fish braid - all of which are 100% natural and satisfy your dog’s instinct to chew while supporting dental health.
If you need smaller training rewards, sprats are ideal when cut into pieces. Dogs can’t resist the natural fishy smell, and they’re rich in Omega-3 fatty acids to support healthy skin, joints, and coat.
All of our natural treats are free from grains, cereals, and preservatives - so you can feel confident knowing your dog is getting only wholesome, healthy ingredients.
💡 Tip: Try hiding smaller treats and food in puzzle toys, or scatter feeding to keep their mind engaged while fireworks are going off outside.
4. Stay calm and act normal
Your dog looks to you for reassurance. If you stay calm and carry on as usual, they’ll pick up on your relaxed energy. Avoid fussing over them if they seem worried, simply be present and positive.
Taking them for a good walk earlier in the day can also help release energy so they’re more likely to settle in the evening. Try to head out before it gets dark to avoid any unexpected fireworks that could startle them during the walk.
5. Prepare ahead of time
Check your local event listings so you know when fireworks are happening. Have your treats, toys, and safe space ready in advance so you can focus on keeping your dog comfortable once the bangs begin.
If your dog struggles severely with noise anxiety, talk with your vet as they can recommend additional support alongside all of your natural strategies.
Keep Fireworks Night Fun (and Stress-Free!)
With a bit of preparation, your dog can learn that fireworks don’t have to be scary. By using natural treats for enrichment, creating a calm environment, and gradually introducing noise training, you’ll help your pup stay relaxed and happy.
Explore our range of natural dog treats and supplements - perfect for keeping your dog occupied and calm this fireworks season.



