Expert Tips on How to Help Dogs on Bonfire Night (Starting Today)

A cosy bonfire, the sky lighting up with fireworks, all wrapped up with a cup of hot chocolate to keep you warm… Bonfire Night is an autumn staple. But while it might be something to look forward to for us humans, our dogs may not share the same sentiment. 

If you’re wondering whether dogs can safely be around a fire or how you can help your dog with the bangs and whooshes of fireworks on Bonfire Night, read on for plenty of advice.

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Main Takeaways

• Dogs should not be taken to Bonfire Night events as they can become very stressed by the sounds, smells and sights. 

• You can help prepare your dog for Bonfire Night by creating a safe, soundproof space for them at home and ensuring you’re around to comfort them. 

• Some dogs may need specialist support so speak to your vet or a behaviourist if you’re struggling to help them on your own.

Can dogs be around a bonfire?

Fireworks aside, bonfires may not be a comfortable experience for dogs. To help keep them safe, they’ll need to stay on lead a sufficient distance away from any flames and ashes. 

It’s also important to ensure they don’t burn themselves even when the fire has been out by keeping them well away until the ground’s completely cooled down.

Some dogs may find bonfires more difficult to deal with than others. These include puppies and elderly dogs or any dogs with breathing difficulties who may be irritated by the likes of smoke.

Do dogs like bonfires?

Every dog is different and will have individual likes and dislikes – just like us. While some may like the warmth of a fire, others may find it too hot or the crackling sounds unpredictable and scary. 

If your dog doesn’t need to be around a bonfire, it’s safest to keep them away or inside. If they are going to be in the vicinity of a fire, pay close attention to their body language so you can gauge whether they’re comfortable or becoming distressed. 

Do dogs stay away from fire?

It’s a myth that animals naturally steer clear of fire. If dogs are unsure or worried by it, they will probably keep their distance. But a lot of dogs may never have been around a fire before. So some may be attracted to the warmth or be curious about what the fire is and therefore move closer to investigate.

We also have to remember that dogs’ senses are different to ours. While their sense of smell is much more powerful, their vision is less so. So it’s possible they may not be able to see the fire as well but want to sniff it to figure out what’s going on. 

Why Bonfire Night can be stressful for dogs

The problem with the annual Bonfire Night is that it doesn’t just include a bonfire. There’s also crowds, fireworks and more – a lot going on for dogs to handle. 

Fireworks are particularly stressful for dogs because they sound extremely loud (so loud in fact that they may actually be painful for dogs), come with bright lights and even produce a distinctive smell. 

Fireworks are also really unpredictable. And when a dog can’t predict something, they’re likely to feel even more anxious.

If you have a smaller gathering in your home with a bonfire in your garden, this may still be too much for your dog. Their safe space has now been invaded and they may not have anywhere to retreat to in order to feel safe. 

How to prepare your dog for Bonfire Night

Even if your dog is staying at home, they’re likely going to experience some of the sights, sounds and smells that come with Bonfire Night. So it’s worth spending some time preparing them for what’s to come so it’s not so much of a shock to the system.

First, check the times and dates of any local displays and ask neighbours if they’re planning on letting off fireworks so you know when to get ready (or take your dog elsewhere). 

If your dog doesn’t show a severe stress response to fireworks and other loud noises or has never been exposed to those kinds of sounds, you can use sound recordings (such as these from Dogs Trust) to help them get used to the noise. You’ll want to do this at least a few weeks in advance.

The key is to start at the lowest volume and gradually work your way up. Only increase the volume when your dog’s relaxed. If they start to show signs of stress, stop and make it quieter next time.

If your dog has a moderate to severe fear of the likes of fireworks, it’s best to speak to your vet as they will be able to recommend products that may help calm them and prescribe medication if needed. They can also give your dog a thorough vet check if they’ve developed a recent sensitivity to noises as this has been linked to pain.

While you can help your dog cope better with loud noises, it’s best to do this under the guidance of a behaviourist. Plus, it can be a lengthy process so you’ll want to start at a time of year where they’re much less likely to hear fireworks such as the spring. 

You can also create a safe space at home and get your dog used to spending time there before the big event. Make sure it’s got plenty of comfortable bedding and things that help relax them there. Some dogs may even like a little den such as a table or crate draped with a blanket. Consider using pheromone support such as an Adaptil diffuser* – it releases a calming scent. 

Whatever space you create, make sure it’s a place where they can rest in peace without people approaching them. Otherwise it can quickly become an unsafe space!

And don’t forget to make sure any gardens or other outdoor areas your dog may go on Bonfire Night are fully fenced off so they can’t escape. If in doubt, take them out to go to the toilet on a lead.

Tips for managing your dog’s anxiety on Bonfire Night

Try to mask sounds and sights by shutting curtains and blinds and using the TV, radio or the likes of a white noise machine. You may need to experiment to see what works best for your dog.

Make sure your dog’s safe space is accessible at all times and has all the resources they might need, including water, in case they don’t want to leave it for some time. And ensure they’ve had a walk and been to the toilet before it gets dark. 

If your dog’s able to eat, provide calming activities involving sniffing, chewing or licking. Or if they’re more into play, get them involved in a game to help them stay relaxed.

Try to remain calm yourself, too. But don’t ignore your dog if they’re looking for comfort and reassurance. And definitely avoid punishing them as this will only make them feel worse. Instead, gently acknowledge them and try to engage them in an alternative activity.

How to recognise anxiety and stress in dogs

While most of us are aware of the more obvious signs of stress and anxiety in dogs, there are subtler signs to pay attention to.

You may notice their eyes look wider than usual or they’re licking their lips or yawning. Their tail may drop and even go in between their legs if they’re really scared. Panting, drooling and not wanting to eat are also signs your dog’s experiencing stress.

They may try to move away from whatever they’re worried of and hide. Or some dogs may want to stay close to you, even jumping up at you. Some may even become restless and pace up and down, struggling to settle.

Finally, look for trembling or shaking and listen out for vocalisation. This may be small whines and whimpers or louder barks and howls.

Dog-friendly Bonfire Night activities

Three things tend to help calm dogs down. They are:

• sniffing

• chewing

• licking

But every dog will have their individual preferences. Some may be happy to sit with a long-lasting chew or stuffed Kong. Others may want to engage in a sniffing game where they hunt round the house for hidden treats. Some may prefer to be even more active and play with you. Try a couple of activities out and see what works best.

How to care for your dog after Bonfire Night is over

It can take some dogs several days to get back to baseline if they’ve become stressed. So it’s worthwhile keeping things nice and relaxed (and predictable) in the days after Bonfire Night. 

Try not to take them to busy places or have lots of people around as they’ll be more likely to react adversely to things if they’re still feeling stressed.

You can even give them a couple of walk-free days if needed and just do some activities at home. 

Final thoughts: dogs on Bonfire Night

It’s best to make Bonfire Night and other similar events as relaxing as possible for your dog. That’ll mean ensuring they have a safe space away from hustle and bustle, calming activities to engage with, and you around to support them if needed.

Remember: if your dog really struggles at this time of year, speak to your vet in advance. There’s lots of support they can give to reduce your dog’s anxiety. 

Frequently asked questions: how to calm dogs on Bonfire Night

Can dogs attend Bonfire Night?

Dogs should not be taken to any event involving fireworks as it can be very stressful and frightening for them. As most Bonfire Night events have firework displays, it’s therefore best to leave your dog at home (or stay home with them).

Even if fireworks won’t be going off, fires can be dangerous for dogs. Some may want to get closer and investigate them while others may be worried by the experience.

Why do dogs pant on Bonfire Night?

When dogs become stressed, their body temperature will increase. They will then try to regulate that body temperature and cool down by panting. Ensure they have plenty of water in case they need it.

Should I take my dog out on Bonfire Night?

It’s good to make sure that your dog has had the opportunity to go to the toilet before they’ll need to stay inside (usually before it gets dark). So if they have to go for a walk, make sure you go out in daylight hours or way before Bonfire Night events are likely to start. 

When the evening hits, it’s best to keep them inside. If they do need to go out, ensure they’re securely on lead so they can’t bolt and run away if they do get frightened. 

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