How to Keep Your Dog Calm This 4th of July

Most dogs are scared of loud noises, like fireworks. But that doesn't have to be the case.

We cover some of the best science-backed methods for helping your dog cope with external stresses, so you can make this 4th of July the best one yet.

Key Takeaways

About half of all dogs are scared of fireworks.
Dogs don't necessarily understand what's happening during Independence Day fireworks shows and interpret the loud noises and flashing lights as dangerous.
As the 4th approaches, you can try to desensitize your dog to fireworks and prepare a safe space for them.
On the day itself, make sure to tire your dog out with exercise and mental stimulation.
CBD treats can promote relaxation and help your dog maintain a normal disposition.

See More: How to Comfort Your Pet With a Fever

Supporting Your Pup During Fourth of July Fireworks

Sean Zyer, founder of Earth Buddy, says:

"Many dogs are scared of fireworks. Fortunately, there are research-backed techniques and supplements that can help them cope with external stresses this 4th of July."

For many people, the 4th of July is the best day of the year. It's a day of celebrations, of good food, of spending time with loved ones.

It's also, famously, a day for fireworks. According to one estimate, each year the US hosts a mind-blowing 14,000 public fireworks displays. Every year, Americans fire off over 428 million pounds of fireworks.¹

That's a lot of firepower. It might sound exciting to you. But what about your dog?

If your dog isn't so sure about fireworks, they aren't alone. In fact, half or more of all dogs are scared of fireworks.²

Loud noises in general can be stressful for dogs, who have much more sensitive hearing than we humans. And fireworks are a classic and sometimes unavoidable source of loud noises.

Fortunately, there are plenty of ways dog owners can support calm behavior in their furry friend this 4th of July. We'll cover some of the best ways you can help your pup remain calm, both in advance and on the day itself.

But first, we need to understand exactly what makes our canine companions so stressed.

Why Are Some Dogs Afraid of Fireworks?

Dog hiding under bed pet anxiety vest gentle pressure soothing music prescription medication

As we mentioned, many dogs are scared of loud sounds. That's not necessarily limited to fireworks. Lots of dogs are scared of thunderstorms, too, for example.

The key thing to remember is that your dog has no way of understanding what is happening. For all they know, an otherwise normal night has suddenly devolved into total chaos, filled with seemingly random noises and lights.³

Dogs also have much more sensitive hearing than us. They can hear lower and higher frequencies than humans, which can make the noises from fireworks even more intense.⁴

Some common signs of stress in dogs include: Shaking, trembling, excessive drooling, panting, whining, and barking. Some dogs try to hide, while others might seek you out for comfort.⁵

Of course, this doesn't necessarily mean that every dog will be scared of fireworks. Other factors can come into play.

For example, some breeds are considered more likely to be afraid of fireworks. And research suggests that older dogs are more likely to become stressed by them.⁶

The important thing to remember is that your dog isn't choosing to be afraid. Their body is reacting to perceived threats and activating their fight-or-flight response.

Bonus: 9 Reasons to Consider MCT Oil for Your Dog

What to Do Before the Fireworks Start

If you think, or know, that your dog will be scared of the fireworks this 4th of July, it's crucial to start supporting them as soon as possible.

That includes making sure your pup has a collar, ID, and microchip. Independence Day is one of the busiest days of the year for shelters, because so many animals run away in a panic because of fireworks.

In fact, from July 4th to 6th, there is a 30% to 60% increase in lost pets at shelters and animal control facilities.⁷

Of course, we'd like to avoid that if possible. The prep work you do with your pup between now and the big day can be the difference between a stressful and calm night.

Desensitization

Behavior modification is a tried and tested method for helping dogs manage their fears.

One technique is desensitization. Another is counterconditioning. The two are often used together.⁸

Desensitization involves exposing your dog to a very mild form of the trigger. It has to be mild enough not to provoke much of a reaction. In this case, that might be playing a quiet audio track of fireworks.

Here's where counter conditioning comes in. As your dog remains calm, reward them with praise and treats. This should help them re-associate something stressful with something positive.

Over time, gradually increase the intensity of the trigger. The theory is that with time and support, they will gradually begin to understand that fireworks aren't something they need to be stressed about.

A professional dog trainer can help with this process.

Work Off Energy

One of the simplest ways you can prepare for the 4th of July is by making sure your dog is tired out. After all, a tired dog is a calmer dog.

Make sure to give your pup plenty of exercise and mental stimulation during the day. Try to do this before things get dark, before the fireworks actually start. And don't overdo things, of course.

Feeding them a nice, satiating, nutritious meal can also help. You want them to enter the evening feeling settled and content.

Set Up a Safe Space

As we mentioned, some dogs respond to fireworks by fleeing. They're seeking a place of safety.

You can help by creating that place. It should be somewhere where your dog can feel comfortable.

The quietest room in your house is a great choice, as it will insulate the sounds of the fireworks. Somewhere without windows or with blinds drawn is also a good idea to block out the flashing lights.

Pack that safe space with things your dog likes. Toys, beds, clothes that smell like you... things that will help them stay comfortable and calm.

If you've crate-trained your dog, you can use their crate for this, too.

Make sure to double-check on your dog throughout the night. And if they decide they don't want to go to their safe place, don't force them. That will only create more discomfort.

Tips For the Fireworks Show

Giving dog cbd oil body language year's eve fear fun vet kennel

So, you've prepared for the night. And now it's here. There are plenty more things you can do to support your dog.

Before anything else, think about yourself. Believe it or not, our pets are closely attuned to our emotional states. How you act can have a big impact on how your dog feels.

In fact, research suggests that when you get stressed, your dog can become stressed, too. So try to remain calm and make sure to take care of yourself, too.⁹

If you do have to go outside, make sure to keep your dog on a leash. Ideally, you'll keep your dog safe inside, with the windows and curtains drawn to muffle sounds and block out lights.

Use CBD Oil or Calming Treats

Calming treats are a fantastic way to help your dog cope with external stresses.

Research has shown that CBD can help promote relaxation in dogs. For example, one 2024 study found that Dogs Given CBD before a stressful car ride demonstrated fewer signs of stress.¹⁰

CBD works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system. That's a network of cannabinoid receptors spread throughout your dog's body (and yours, too). It interacts with many important bodily functions, including stress.

"The molecules that I'm making right now, that your dog's making, that are essential for them balancing their lives — they can be used up," explains veterinarian Dr. Casara Andre in conversation with Earth Buddy founder Sean Zyer. "The CBD molecule is really powerful at slowing down the destruction of these endocannabinoids. That's a really lovely way to support what the body's already trying to do."

Earth Buddy has a range of calming treats for dogs. Our Duck & Apple Chews each contain 5mg of CBD, and our Beef & Pumpkin Chews each have 10mg. Alternatively, our hemp hearts blend whole plant hemp extract with other natural ingredients, like antioxidant-rich blueberries or fiber-packed pumpkins.

CBD oil is also a great, versatile choice for promoting relaxation in both dogs and cats. Earth Buddy's Balance Hemp Extract blends organic CBD Oil With CBDa Oil to help your pet maintain a normal disposition and cope with external stresses.

Play White Noise

Another potentially useful technique is to play some white noise. You could use a white noise machine, a fan, or even your phone.

This white noise won't completely drown out the sounds of fireworks. That's not the point. The idea is to take the edge off the booming sounds.

You could also try playing some calming music. Research suggests that soft, slow, calming music can help promote relaxation in dogs.

Try Pheromones or Aromatherapy

You could also try appealing to your dog's sense of smell. Like hearing, it's far more advanced than ours.

One technique is to use a pheromone diffuser. They release the calming pheromones that dogs produce naturally, helping to promote relaxation.

Another technique is to use scents believed to promote relaxation in dogs. Examples include chamomile and lavender. In one study, dogs exposed to the scent of lavender spent more time resting and less time vocalizing.¹¹

Just make sure to introduce these scents gradually. Your dog might be sensitive.

However, these approaches aren't always effective. In one survey, essential oils, herbs, and pheromones were only 30% effective.¹²

Dog sniffing lavender flowers outside talk tv sit eat puppy family

Conclusion

It's very common for dogs to be scared of fireworks. But that doesn't mean you have to view the 4th of July with dread. There are plenty of ways you can support your pet before and during Independence Day.

In the run-up to the 4th, try desensitizing your dog to loud noises and setting up a safe space for them. Make sure they're tired out on the day itself. And consider giving them a calming CBD treat to help them cope with external stresses.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Keep My Dog Calm During the 4th of July?

Close windows and curtains to muffle sounds and block lights, and play white noise or calming music. Create a safe space where your dog can go if they become afraid. Consider giving them a Calming CBD Treat to help promote relaxation.

What Is the 7-7-7 Rule for Dogs?

The 7-7-7 rule is a guide to the timeframe of adopting a new dog. It holds that dogs will generally need seven days to decompress, seven weeks to learn your routine, and seven months to form a long-term bond with you.

What Helps Dogs With Stress During Fireworks?

Research shows that CBD can promote relaxation and help dogs cope with external stresses. You could give your dog CBD oil, either straight from the dropper or mixed into their food. Alternatively, you could give them a high-quality calming hemp treat.

Keep Reading: Why Does My Dog Bark When I Leave? 8 Things to Try

Sources

Earth Buddy is an environmentally conscious and family-owned company dedicated to providing natural solutions for pets. From our CBD oils to our colostrum supplements, our products are designed to promote calmness and encourage relaxation for our furry friends. To learn more and stay connected, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Pinterest.

How to Keep Your Dog Calm This 4th of July

Key Takeaways

Supporting Your Pup During Fourth of July Fireworks

Why Are Some Dogs Afraid of Fireworks?