Every year when dazzling firework displays light up the sky, it sends Fido running for cover. Noise phobia in dogs is a common issue that many owners must deal with. Most dogs are sensitive to loud noises – a dog’s hearing is 10 times better than a human’s – but some dogs are particularly prone to anxiety and stress during fireworks, thunderstorms or other loud noises.

Usually a noise-phobic dog will have symptoms such as shaking or hiding, or in more serious cases, chewing through crates or screen doors.

To ease the stress on your dog in lead up to fireworks, there are several things you can do.

• Take your dog on an extra long walk or play a second game of catch at the park. Tire your dog out before all the excitement starts, the exercise can help relax her.
• Before the fireworks start, let the dog relax in a comfortable, familiar place in the house where she’ll be less likely to hear the sounds. A bathroom or basement can work well, or if she likes the car, it can be a perfect place to wait out the storm. Don’t forget to add her favorite toy.
• Try desensitizing your dog by slowly introducing her to low volume firework noises. You can do this by softly playing a tape or CD of fireworks going off. Start it at a barely audible level for a few minutes and while it plays reward your dog with treats or calmly talk to her. Over the next week or so increase the volume, but make sure to not exceed the dog’s comfort zone and overwhelm her.
• Fight the urge to baby your dog. Coddling the dog may actually reinforce her fear, especially if the dog sees her owner reacting negatively to the fireworks too by jumping or flinching.
• Drown out the sounds by turning up the TV or radio. The white noise can mask the fireworks and prevent the dog from stressing out at all. This method can also add to the confusion, so watch your dog’s reaction if you’re planning on leaving her alone.
• For some dogs medication can be the best solution. Mild sedatives or anxiety pills can help calm down a dog that doesn’t respond well to behavioral techniques. Always consult your veterinarian before giving anything to your dog.