Dogs and fireworks: 9 tips for a calmer New Year's Eve

For many dogs, New Year's Eve is the worst night of the year. The bangs come without warning, lights flash and the smell of gunpowder hangs in the air. Dogs hear much better than we do, and bangs that sound loud to us can be frightening for a dog. The good news is that there's a lot you can do to make the night calmer, especially if you start early.

When are fireworks allowed?

Fireworks rules depend on where you live, and many areas have their own restrictions on top of that. Check what applies in your state and local area. In practice there are often bangs both before and after the night itself, so expect a few unsettled days around New Year.

How to tell if your dog is scared

• Shaking, panting or drooling when it isn't hot
• Hiding, or refusing to leave your side
• Pacing, whining or barking
• Not wanting to eat, or not wanting to go outside
• Trying to bolt when there's a bang

9 tips for a calmer New Year's Eve

1. Start training early

Play firework sounds quietly at home while your dog eats or plays, and turn the volume up a little each day. This teaches your dog that the sound doesn't mean danger. Start several weeks before New Year if you can, and go back to a lower volume if your dog gets unsettled.

2. Walk before dark

Do the long walk early in the day so your dog is tired and content by evening. Lots of dogs get spooked and run off on New Year's Eve. Always keep your dog on a lead, and ideally use both a harness and a collar.

3. Check the microchip and ID tag

Make sure your dog is microchipped, that your contact details are correct, and that they wear an ID tag with your phone number. It improves the chances of finding each other again if something happens.

4. Set up a safe hiding spot

Give your dog a den to retreat to, such as a crate with a blanket over it or a dog bed in the quietest room of the house. Let your dog decide whether to lie there.

5. Muffle sound and light

Close the curtains and leave the radio or TV on at a normal volume. It softens the bangs and the flashes outside.

6. Try ear muffs and a snug vest

Soft ear muffs muffle the sound, and a vest that fits snugly around the body gives many dogs a sense of calm. Your dog needs time to get used to both well before New Year, ideally in short sessions with treats. NyttårsRo™ is a set with a hooded vest and a soft ear hood that can be used together or on their own.

7. Stay calm, and comfort your dog

It's completely fine to comfort a scared dog. Talk calmly, sit with them and let them stay close to you if they want to. Never tell off a frightened dog.

8. Don't leave your dog alone

Plan the evening so someone is home with your dog when the bangs are at their worst, around midnight.

9. Talk to your vet early

If your dog is very scared, talk to your vet several weeks before New Year. Your vet can assess whether your dog needs calming medication or a training plan. Never give your dog medication meant for people.

New Year's Eve checklist

• Long walk before dark, always on a lead
• Microchip and ID tag checked
• Hiding spot ready in a quiet room
• Curtains closed, radio or TV on
• Ear muffs and vest tried out beforehand
• Someone home with your dog around midnight

Frequently asked questions

Do ear muffs help dogs with fireworks?

Ear muffs muffle the sound, and many dogs settle better with them on. They work best when your dog has worn them several times before, so they feel safe and familiar.

Can I comfort my dog when they're scared?

Yes. Comforting a scared dog won't make them more afraid. A calm presence helps many dogs.

When should I start preparing my dog?

Ideally several weeks before New Year. Sound training, ear muffs and a vest all take time to get used to.