How to Calm an Anxious Dog During Storms and Fireworks

Few things are harder to watch than your dog trembling, panting, or hiding because a thunderstorm is rolling in. Anxiety in dogs during storms and loud events like fireworks is incredibly common — and it can escalate with every episode if left unaddressed. The good news is that a combination of preparation, environment changes, and the right calming products can make a real difference.

Recognising the Signs of Storm and Firework Anxiety

Dogs express anxiety in many ways, and the signs aren't always obvious. Some dogs pace, drool excessively, or whine, while others become destructive — scratching at doors, chewing furniture, or trying to escape the house entirely.

Subtler signals include yawning when they're not tired, pinning their ears back, tucking their tail, or refusing treats they'd normally devour. You might also notice dilated pupils or excessive lip-licking.

If your dog begins showing these behaviours well before a storm arrives, they may be responding to changes in barometric pressure or distant rumbles that human ears can't yet detect. This early-warning response is one reason dog anxiety around storms can seem unpredictable to owners.

Why Dogs React to Loud Noises

Dogs hear frequencies far beyond the human range, and at much greater volume. A crack of thunder or a firework burst that startles you is exponentially louder and more disorienting for your dog.

Static electricity build-up during thunderstorms can also cause tingling sensations in a dog's coat, adding a physical discomfort layer on top of the noise. Some breeds and individual dogs are genetically predisposed to noise sensitivity, meaning they may never fully "get used to it" without help.

Importantly, each fearful experience can reinforce the anxiety cycle. A dog that was mildly nervous during last year's fireworks display may be in full panic mode this year if nothing was done to break that pattern.

Creating a Calm, Safe Environment

Start by giving your dog access to a quiet, interior room with minimal windows. Draw curtains or blinds to muffle flashes of lightning and bursts of light from fireworks. A familiar blanket or bed in this space helps signal safety.

Background noise is your friend. Play calm music, turn on the television, or use a white-noise machine to mask the sharp, unpredictable sounds that trigger anxiety in dogs during fireworks and thunder.

Never force your dog into a crate or closed room if they're already panicking. This can intensify the fear response and damage trust. Instead, leave doors open so they can choose their own hiding spot.

Calming Products That Actually Help

Several product categories can take the edge off noise-related anxiety, especially when combined with environmental changes.

Pheromone diffusers and sprays — Products from Adaptil release a synthetic version of the calming pheromone mother dogs produce for their puppies. Plug a diffuser into the safe room a few days before an expected event for best results, or use the spray on bedding and bandanas for on-the-spot support.

Calming supplements — Chews and tablets containing ingredients like L-tryptophan, casein, or B-group vitamins can support a calmer mood. These work best when given consistently in the lead-up to a stressful period rather than as a one-off.

Pressure wraps — Snug-fitting body wraps apply gentle, constant pressure around the torso, similar to swaddling an infant. Many owners report a noticeable reduction in trembling and pacing.

Browse our full range of dog calming and wellness products to find the right combination for your pet's needs.

Long-Term Strategies for Noise Anxiety

Desensitisation training involves playing recorded storm or firework sounds at a very low volume while your dog is relaxed, then gradually increasing the volume over weeks. Pair each session with treats and calm praise to build a positive association.

Counter-conditioning works hand-in-hand with desensitisation. The goal is to change your dog's emotional response — so that a rumble of thunder predicts something wonderful (like a favourite chew) rather than something terrifying.

Consistency matters more than intensity. Short, positive sessions every few days will outperform a single marathon effort. Keep a journal to track triggers, severity, and what helped so you can refine your approach over time.

Your own behaviour matters too. Stay calm, speak in a normal tone, and avoid over-comforting, which can inadvertently reinforce the idea that there's something to fear. Simply being present and relaxed is often the most powerful signal you can send.

If your dog's anxiety around fireworks or storms is severe — involving self-harm, escape attempts, or prolonged distress — it's worth having a chat with your vet about a tailored behavioural plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can dogs outgrow their fear of storms and fireworks?

Most dogs do not outgrow noise anxiety on their own; it tends to worsen with repeated exposure. However, with consistent desensitisation training and the right calming support, many dogs show significant improvement over time.

How far in advance should I start preparing for a fireworks event?

Ideally, begin desensitisation work and supplement routines at least two to three weeks beforehand. Set up the safe space a few days early and start the pheromone diffuser so the room is saturated by the time the noise begins.

Is it okay to comfort my dog during a storm?

Gentle, calm reassurance is perfectly fine — you won't "reward" the fear. Just avoid frantic or overly emotional responses, as your dog reads your energy. Sitting quietly nearby or offering a long-lasting chew can be more effective than constant patting.

Ready to help your dog feel safer when the noise starts? Explore our full range of calming products for dogs and stock up before the next storm rolls through.