10 Tips to Calm Your Dog During Thunderstorms and Fireworks
If you’ve ever seen your dog panting, pacing, or trying to hide during a thunderstorm or fireworks show, you’re not alone. Loud noises can seriously stress out our pups. Over the years, we’ve tried just about everything to help soothe our own dogs when storms roll in or the sky lights up with fireworks. Some things worked better than others — so here’s what’s actually helped us, and what might work for you too.
1. Set up a safe, cozy den — and make it familiar.
Dogs naturally seek shelter when they’re scared, so give them somewhere comfy and quiet to retreat. This could be a crate, a calm room, or even a closet (yes, our dog once claimed the laundry room during a thunderstorm). Add blankets, some favorite toys, and maybe an old T-shirt that smells like you. Take your dog to this spot before the storm or fireworks start so they associate it with safety — we’ve even hidden treats there in advance to make it more inviting.
2. Use calming background noise.
Soft music or white noise can really help muffle the scary booms outside. We’ve had luck with classical music or playlists made just for dogs (yes, those exist — and they’re surprisingly effective). A fan or white noise machine works too. Just keep the volume low and steady — you’re not trying to drown out the noise, just soften the impact.
3. Keep them busy with toys or treats.
Distraction is a powerful tool. We often give our dogs puzzle toys or long-lasting chews when we know fireworks are coming. It helps shift their focus from fear to food (and let’s be honest, most dogs are food-motivated). Make sure the treats are safe and healthy, and save their favorite ones for these moments — it turns a scary night into a mini celebration.
4. Tire them out before the noise starts.
A well-exercised dog is usually a calmer dog. If the forecast calls for storms or you know fireworks are planned, get in a good walk or a game of fetch earlier in the day. It helps burn off nervous energy and makes them more likely to rest during the chaos.
5. Don’t leave them alone if you can help it.
Your presence is comforting — even if you’re just chilling on the couch nearby. We’ve noticed our dogs do way better when we’re around to offer calm reassurance. Sometimes we just sit with them in their safe space, give gentle pets, and talk in a soothing voice. If you do have to leave them, make sure their den is set up and cozy, and consider using a pet camera to check in if you're worried.
6. Try a ThunderShirt (or similar calming wrap).
We were skeptical at first, but the ThunderShirt actually made a difference with one of our more anxious dogs. It’s basically a snug vest that applies gentle, constant pressure — kind of like a hug. Some dogs really respond to that sensation. It’s not a magic fix for every dog, but it’s worth trying, especially if your pup doesn’t mind wearing clothes.
7. Look into natural calming aids — with your vet’s guidance.
There are pheromone sprays, calming collars, herbal supplements (like chamomile or valerian root), and essential oils that some pet parents swear by. We’ve used a pheromone diffuser during firework-heavy holidays and noticed a slight calming effect. Always check with your vet before introducing anything new, especially with essential oils, since some can be toxic to dogs if used incorrectly.
8. In severe cases, talk to your vet about medication.
If your dog’s fear is extreme — think shaking, nonstop barking, or destructive behavior — your vet can help you explore short-term anxiety medications. These aren’t meant to be used all the time, but they can offer relief during especially stressful events. Just be sure to use them as directed and combine them with training or behavior work when possible.
9. Close the curtains and windows.
Simple but effective: keep windows shut to muffle the noise and draw the curtains to block out flashes of lightning or fireworks. It helps reduce the sensory overload that triggers anxiety. And don’t forget to leave out fresh water — stress can make dogs pant and dehydrate faster.
10. Stay calm yourself.
Dogs are emotional sponges. If you’re tense, they’ll pick up on it. We’ve learned to take a few deep breaths ourselves, speak in a calm, upbeat tone, and avoid making a fuss over the noise. Treat it like no big deal, and your dog may start to believe it too.
Final thoughts:
Helping your dog through storms or fireworks isn’t about finding one perfect solution — it’s about combining a few strategies that work for your unique pup. And if nothing seems to help, don’t hesitate to ask your vet or a behaviorist for support. With time, patience, and the right tools, you can help your dog feel safer and more secure, no matter what’s happening outside.
