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Christmas and New Year can be really stressful for our pets. Many dogs get scared by all the fireworks and find walks Challenging in the days leading up to New Year's Eve. We'll share some tips to help your dog stay relaxed on New Year's Eve.
Why New Year's Eve Fireworks Scare Dogs?
New Year's Eve fireworks are terrifying for many dogs, this is partly because dogs have incredibly sensitive hearing. While humans can typically hear sounds up to around 20,000 Hertz, dogs can hear sounds up to 65,000 Hertz – more than three times the range! This means they can hear sounds much higher pitched than we can, sounds we might not even notice.
They can also hear sounds much further away and pinpoint their exact location easily. And of course, they have no understanding of what a firework is. To them, it's just a series of incredibly loud, unpredictable, and terrifying noises coming from the sky. So it's no wonder many dogs panic when they hear fireworks.
Signs Your Dog is Scared on New Year's Eve 2025
Dogs show fear in lots of different ways, depending on what's scaring them and their personality. A dog might growl and bark if another dog approaches, but tremble and hide if they hear loud noises. Signs of anxiety can range from being a bit restless to things like diarrhoea or loss of appetite.
If your dog has been showing intense anxiety for several days, it's best to see a vet to help manage the symptoms and get advice on long-term solutions like behaviour therapy and training.
Loud noises generally bother dogs, but some are less sensitive than others. Some don't even flinch at thunderstorms or fireworks, while others become very scared.
So what should you watch out for? Signs like wide eyes, flattened ears, panting, shaking, hiding, excessive barking, or even accidents in their bed could all be signs of fear. You might also notice them crouching down with their tails tucked between their legs.
Preparing Your Dog for New Year's Eve | Important Rules
If you know your dog gets stressed by the New Year's noise, it's a good idea to get them ready for it beforehand.
Natural Calming Remedies:
Don't leave giving your dog any calming medication until the last minute – it takes time to work. The dose needs to be right for your dog's size, age, how much they're usually affected by loud noises, and their personality.
When choosing a calmer, check the ingredients. Look for natural ingredients that are known to help reduce anxiety. These should be safe, even if given over a longer period, and shouldn't make your dog drowsy. Make sure it's been tested to show it actually works!
Good calming products often include compositions like:
- Valerian: Helps reduce anxiety and stress in both dogs and cats. Always check with your vet about the right amount to give.
- Tryptophan: This helps keep them happy and mentally sharp. It's a building block for serotonin (the "happy hormone"), which is important for feeling calm. It's also naturally found in their food.
- Chamomile: This naturally helps to calm and relax.
Safe Walking During Fireworks Season:
The fireworks and bangs often start a day or two before New Year's Eve and can last for a few days afterwards.
An adjustable harness with an extra strap is a good safety measure—a runaway dog could get seriously hurt or lost...
Try to take your dog for a walk before the fireworks start. Keep them on a lead – it's best to use both a collar and an adjustable harness, attaching the lead to both for extra security even if your dog usually comes back when you call them. It's better to be safe than sorry! Make sure their ID tag is securely attached, and keep in mind that a long walk isn't ideal at this time.
Avoid fireworks displays completely, even if your dog isn't usually scared of loud noises.
Plan your walks for the daytime, as fireworks are more common at night. Make sure they get enough exercise, but a shorter walk might be better on these days.
Finally, if your dog doesn't want to go out, don't force them. Just let them know the option is there.
Dog Sound Training for a Happy New Year:
Start getting your dog used to New Year's Eve sounds well in advance. You can find recordings of fireworks online or on CDs, begin by playing them very quietly while your dog is relaxed – maybe while they're eating, playing, or cuddling. This helps them associate the sounds with positive things.
Gradually increase the volume over time, taking it slow and steady. This could take weeks, even months! The aim is for your dog to learn these sounds aren't scary. To avoid your dog only associating the sounds with a specific time or place, vary when and where you play them. Also, try to play the sounds at least once a day so they become a normal part of your daily routine.
Safe Place:
Don't leave your dog alone on New Year's Eve because your presence will comfort them. They'll probably try to find a quiet spot to hide, so make sure they have a safe, soundproofed place to go – a bathroom, a dog bed in a quiet corner, or a covered crate are all good options.
Try to block out as much noise as possible by covering windows and playing music. Most importantly, stay with your dog that night.
Get Your Vet's Advice:
If your dog is extremely anxious for a couple of days, talk to your vet. They might be able to help manage the anxiety medically. It's especially important to see a vet if your dog stops eating or drinking, or refuses to go outside. In such cases, professional help with anxiety training is also a good idea.
We hope this guide has provided helpful advice for managing your dog's anxiety during the New Year celebrations. Remember, a calm and prepared approach is key to ensuring a happy and safe New Year for both you and your pet.
We wish you a peaceful holiday season and look forward to seeing you in 2025!
Happy New Year.