Fourth of July Survival Guide for Dogs (and their humans!)

The Fourth of July is a time for celebration, but for many dogs, it can be one of the scariest nights of the year. The loud booms, flashing lights, and unpredictable noises can trigger anxiety, panic, and even dangerous behaviors like bolting or destructive chewing.

As a professional dog trainer, I want to help you and your dog get through the festivities calmly and safely. Here's how to prepare:

Create a Safe, Quiet Space

Well before visitors arrive or fireworks begin, set up a cozy spot where your dog can feel secure. This might be:

• A crate with a cuddly blanket (if your dog is crate-trained)

• A quiet room with soft bedding and dim lighting

• Their favorite spot in the house, stocked with familiar toys and comfort items

Consider using calming music, a sound machine, or the tv to help mask outside noise.

Don’t Leave Your Dog Outside or Unattended

Even the most relaxed dog may panic at fireworks and try to escape. Make sure:

• All doors and windows are closed and secure

• Your dog is indoors and supervised once the sun goes down

• You’ve double-checked the backyard for any escape routes.  Use a leash or long line if they must go outside briefly

Tip: Take them for a potty break before it gets dark and noisy!

Exercise Early

A well-exercised dog is generally a calmer dog. On the morning of the 4th, take your pup on a long walk or play a mentally stimulating training game. Avoid being outdoors in the evening when fireworks are likely to begin.

Use Enrichment to Distract and Soothe

Prepare puzzle toys, snuffle mats, lick mats, or frozen Kongs filled with your dog’s favorite treats. Licking and sniffing are naturally calming behaviors and can help shift your dog’s focus away from the scary sounds.

Stay Calm and Supportive

If your dog seeks you out, comfort them. You won’t “reinforce” fear by offering support; fear is an emotion, not a behavior. Use your voice, gentle touch, or presence to help your dog feel safe.

Get Support

For dogs with known noise phobias, speak with your vet about short-term anti-anxiety medications or calming supplements. While products like anxiety vests and pheromone diffusers have limited scientific support, they're generally safe to try, especially when used under the guidance of your vet and a qualified behavior consultant.

Update ID and Microchip Info

Unfortunately, more dogs go missing on July 4th than any other day of the year. Ensure:

• Your dog is wearing a well-fitted collar with current ID tags

• Their microchip information is up to date with your contact info

• You have a recent photo on hand, just in case

Bonus Tip: Start Desensitizing Early (for next year!)

If your dog struggles with fireworks, we can work together to build up their resilience through desensitization and counterconditioning. This involves gradually introducing firework sounds at a low volume while pairing them with fun or rewarding experiences, well before fireworks season starts.

Need Help?

Reach out today, I’m here to support you and your dog, year-round.