Storms and fireworks can occur unexpectedly, so it is important to have strategies available that can give your fearful dog immediate relief. Noise phobias are intense fears and may worsen over time if left untreated. Although some dogs may never be fully cured, treatment can often reduce the level of fear and improve quality of life.

This handout focuses on ways to help your dog during a storm or fireworks event, with a focus on some fast-acting, short-term strategies. Once the immediate danger has passed, you can introduce a long-term treatment plan. A comprehensive plan will include behavior modification, such as systematic desensitization and counter-conditioning, and may also add long-acting medications that can help reduce fear over the course of several weeks.

Ideally, it is best to begin this training when fireworks or thunderstorms are not likely to occur. If your dog is exposed to an actual storm before his treatment is complete, their progress may be temporarily set back. The goal of treatment is to reduce the level of fear as much as possible.

Can medications help relieve my dog’s fear?

Yes, there are medications that can reduce the intensity of your dog’s fear. Most medications work best when given before the fear reaction begins, so it is helpful to plan ahead. Watch the local weather forecast and be on the lookout for local fireworks events.

Some medications are designed for daily use and can be given throughout the storm or firework season. Having daily medication can keep your dog comfortable if there is an unexpected event. Your veterinarian may suggest using daily medication and then adding a fast-acting medication when your dog needs extra relief. Adverse drug interactions are possible with some medications and supplements, so always follow your veterinarian’s advice.

Should I scold or punish my dog?

Do not scold your dog. Your dog is already frightened and your reprimand will only add to the fear. If your dog scratches the door to escape from the scary sound, or knocks things over while pacing, they are not trying to be naughty — they are just overwhelmed.

Should I try to reassure my dog?

It is best not to fuss over your dog if they are frightened. Repeatedly coaxing or trying to get your dog to engage, particularly when they are trying to retreat or hide, may increase their distress. They are using all their concentration to keep the storm from “catching” them and your attempts to distract them may be overwhelming.

Some dogs may be comforted if they can lean on you or lie under your legs. Try placing your dog’s favorite bed or blanket conveniently close to your seat. Some dogs appear to be comforted when a person quietly puts an arm around them, while other dogs struggle with this type of “restraint.”

What can I do to help my dog?

Settle training: When all is quiet, practice training your dog to settle on a blanket or bed.

• Use rewards such as favorite treats or gentle massage.
• Train somewhere in the house as far from the source of the sound as possible. An ideal spot would be a safe base that your dog has previously selected when faced with a stressful situation.
• During settle training, play background music that will be associated with relaxation. Background music also helps muffle the scary sounds that occur during a real event.

Over time, the location, the bed, and the music should signal it is time to relax. Then, during a real storm, try bringing your dog to the safe place. If they resist, do not force them. Ask your veterinarian for help. You will need a more comprehensive, structured behavior modification plan.

Never confine your dog during a real storm or firework event unless you can remain with them or monitor them from another area of the house. Release them from the gated space if they begin to pace or attempt to escape.

Make their space comfortable: With successful settle training, some dogs may rest on their beds until the storm has passed.

• Use curtains or opaque window coverings to improve your dog’s comfort in the safe room.
• If your dog is very playful, bring some favorite toys to the room, but do not repeatedly coax them to play — they may prefer to rest quietly.

Reduce the noise:

• Close all the windows and doors in the house so the outside sounds are muffled as much as possible.
• Steady, predictable background sounds may help mask sudden noises. Music, television, fans, or white-noise machines can all be useful.

Consider anti-anxiety products:

• Anxiety wraps such as the Thundershirt™ are designed to help dogs relax and are worth trying.
• Pheromone products such as Thunderease® can reduce anxiety and are available as diffusers. They can also be applied directly to your dog’s bedding.

Provide distraction: Some dogs, particularly those with a lower level of fear, enjoy playing games, such as tug or fetch, and they can be fully distracted for the duration of the noise event.

Do not ignore your dog’s fear of fireworks or storms. Even though the triggers are only seasonal, your dog’s fear can get worse year after year. Prepare to start a desensitization program at the end of a fireworks or storm season.