Fireworks & Fear: Expert Advice from PAWD Drinks

At Bruce’s, we know that loud bangs and bright flashes can be overwhelming for many dogs.

To help you prepare for the season ahead, we sat down with Archie & Rory from PAWD Drinks for a special Q&A. They share their top tips for spotting anxiety early, creating safe spaces, and supporting your dog’s wellbeing before, during, and after fireworks.

Q: What are the common signs that a dog is anxious because of fireworks?

A: Dogs express anxiety in many ways, and during fireworks you might notice behaviours ranging from the obvious to the subtle. Common signs include trembling, shaking, pacing, panting heavily, drooling, or trying to hide under furniture. Some dogs bark excessively, whine, or scratch at doors in an attempt to escape. Others may cling tightly to their owner, refusing to leave their side, while some retreat into a corner and shut down. 

Even more subtle signs, like wide, dilated pupils, pinned-back ears, or a tucked tail, indicate discomfort. Being able to read these cues early allows you to step in before your dog’s fear escalates into panic.

Q: How can I prepare my dog ahead of firework season to make it less scary?

 A: Preparation is one of the most powerful tools you have. Weeks before firework season, start creating a consistent, calm routine for your dog. Build a safe space in the quietest room of your home, a place they already associate with positive experiences.

Stock up on calming aids, favourite toys, and enrichment puzzles to keep them occupied. Schedule walks earlier in the day to avoid being caught outside during fireworks. Importantly, prepare yourself too: your calm and predictable behaviour will give your dog a sense of security. 

Think of preparation as “firework-proofing” your dog’s environment and mindset, reducing the shock when the noise begins.

Q: What can I do at home during fireworks to make the environment calmer for my dog?

A: Your home becomes your dog’s sanctuary during firework season, so making it feel safe and secure is essential. Closing curtains or blinds helps block out sudden flashes of light. Dimming the lights inside creates a soothing atmosphere. Playing calming background music or white noise can mask the sharpness of firework bangs. Offer your dog familiar comforts: their favourite blanket, a well-loved toy, or a chew to focus on. Some owners even find that dog-specific TV channels or audiobooks with gentle voices help reduce stress. The aim is to make your home feel cocooned and predictable while the outside world is chaotic.

Q: How can I comfort my dog without reinforcing the fear?

A: A common myth is that comforting a fearful dog will “reward” the fear. In reality, fear is an emotion, not a behaviour, and emotions can’t be reinforced like tricks or commands. Offering calm reassurance through gentle touch, soft words, or simply sitting nearby helps your dog feel supported. 

What matters is your energy: if you stay calm, your dog is more likely to mirror that stability. Avoid fussing excessively or acting anxious yourself, as this can make them feel something is “wrong.” Think of it as being a steady, grounding presence rather than an overprotective one.

Q: When should I consider medication or calming supplements?

A: If your dog’s anxiety is extreme, to the point that it affects their health, appetite, or safety, it’s worth speaking to your vet.

Natural calming supplements like PAWD Calming can provide relief without the need for prescription medication. Developed by world-leading animal nutritionists, PAWD Calming is designed to support your dog during anxious moments, such as fireworks. Simply serve it daily, it can be mixed straight into your dog’s water bowl and watch them happily lap it up.

With fireworks season approaching, now is the perfect time to prepare. Subscribe today and receive the ultimate calming bundle: PAWD Calming powder plus a free calming collar and scoop. Bruce’s customers also enjoy an extra 25% off with code ‘BRUCES’.

The key is planning ahead, don’t wait until Bonfire Night. The benefits of PAWD build gradually with consistent use, helping your dog stay calm and supported when it matters most.

Every dog deserves to feel safe, even when the sky lights up. We’re proud to partner with PAWD Drinks to bring you expert tips and trusted products to support your dog’s wellbeing. Whether it’s through thoughtful preparation at home or a little extra reassurance from our team at Bruce’s, we’re here to help you and your pup enjoy a calmer, happier firework season.