Bonfire Night 2025: Your Complete Guide to Calming Your Anxious Dog

Oct 18, 2024

4 min read

As Bonfire Night approaches, the sound of fireworks can be a terrifying experience for many dogs. Their natural instinct is to be scared of loud, unexpected noises, which can lead to whimpering, shaking, and even destructive behaviour. You may feel helpless when your dog is scared, but you’ll be pleased to know there are steps you can take to help them feel safer and calmer.

Your best approach is to start a few weeks in advance with a combination of training, natural support, and environmental changes. Here is Your Complete Guide to Calming Your Anxious Dog, a simple, three-step plan to help your dog prepare for a more peaceful Bonfire Night.

Step 1: Positive Reconditioning

Positive reconditioning is a powerful technique that helps your dog change their reaction to a scary sound from a negative one to a positive one. The goal is to make a scary sound—like fireworks—mean something wonderful is about to happen.

You can start this now, as we’re still a few weeks away. Find a video of firework sounds and follow these steps:

Start the video on the lowest volume you can.
While the sound is barely audible, give your dog a high-value treat, like a filled frozen Kong or a lick mat covered in meat pate. This distracts them and creates a positive association with the sound.
Each day, gradually increase the volume of the firework sounds while continuing to give them the treat.
By the time Bonfire Night arrives, they will recognize the sound of fireworks as a signal that their favourite treat is on the way.

Step 2: Natural Support from Supplements & Aromatherapy

Using natural calming solutions can significantly help reduce anxiety, especially when combined with training.

Our Trusted, Long-Term Solutions:

Dorwest Valerian Compound: This fast-acting liquid is a must-have for immediate relief. It works within 30 minutes to calm and relax your pet without causing drowsiness. It can be given directly into the mouth, on their food, or even sprinkled on their bedding for a calming scent.
Dorwest Skullcap & Valerian Tablets: These tablets provide a gentle, long-term calming effect. They are an excellent choice for pets who need to stay calm yet alert, and they can be given in the days leading up to Bonfire Night as part of a calming routine.
Goodbye Anxiety Wax Melts: The calming scents of lavender and cedarwood in our wax melts create a peaceful atmosphere for both you and your pet. This is a safe, non-ingestible solution that can help ease your dog's tension.
Limited Availability: Proflax Omega Calm & Proflax Calm and Collected We have a limited supply of these popular supplements, perfect for a powerful, natural solution. Proflax Omega Calm is ideal for dogs with high levels of anxiety, while Proflax Calm and Collected is excellent for low to moderate anxiety.
Shop now while stocks last to avoid disappointment.

Step 3: Creating a Safe & Soothing Space

The environment you create for your dog can make all the difference. As Bonfire Night approaches, set up a "safe den" for them in a quiet part of your home. This could be their crate, a bed under a table, or a cosy corner of a room where they feel secure.

More Ways to Help: Non-Product Tips & Tricks

Sometimes, a little distraction and a change of routine are all it takes to make a big difference.

Drown Out the Noise: Use sound to your advantage. Try playing calming music (especially classical or music specifically for dogs) or turning on the TV to a higher volume to help muffle the sound of distant fireworks.
Engage Their Brain: Distract your dog from the noise with fun enrichment games. A snuffle mat, puzzle toy, or a few treats scattered around the room can occupy their mind and redirect their focus away from the scary sounds. The mental work involved in these activities can also help release calming hormones.
Don't Change Your Behaviour: Dogs are very good at reading their owners. If you act anxious and nervous, they will pick up on it. Try to stay calm and upbeat. Act as if everything is completely normal to reassure them that there is no danger.
Walk Early: Plan your walks for before dusk. Avoid taking your dog out in the evening, as a surprise firework could spook them. If they need to go out, keep them on a short lead and stay close to home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When should I start giving my dog calming supplements? It's best to start a few weeks before Bonfire Night, especially for tablet-based supplements, to allow them to build up in your dog's system. Fast-acting liquids like Valerian Compound can be used in the moment.
Can I use multiple calming products at once? For many dogs, a combination of a supplement (taken orally) and a scent-based product (like our wax melts) works very well. However, if you are planning to use multiple supplements, it is always best to consult your veterinarian first to ensure the combination is safe for your dog.
What if my dog is still scared? It’s important to stay calm and supportive. Never get angry or punish your dog for being scared. If you have tried all the tips in this guide and your dog is still showing extreme signs of fear, we recommend speaking with your veterinarian or a qualified dog behaviourist.
Is it safe to walk my dog on Bonfire Night? We strongly recommend walking your dog during daylight hours on the day of Bonfire Night. Avoid evening walks to prevent the risk of a surprise firework frightening your dog and causing them to try to escape.

Get Everything You Need to Prepare

Bonfire Night doesn't have to be a source of fear for you or your dog. By starting your preparations now, you can help them feel more confident and secure.

Shop our full collection of natural solutions today and get everything you need to help your best friend have a calm and peaceful Bonfire Night.