Dogs are often scared of fireworks. Their senses and instincts work differently. They experience the world in a very different way from humans. Here’s why fireworks can be so frightening for them:

1. Extremely Sensitive Hearing:
   Dogs hear sounds at a much higher frequency and greater distance than humans. The sudden, unpredictable explosions of fireworks can be painfully loud and disorienting for them.
2. Unpredictable and Inescapable Noise:
   Unlike a steady sound like thunder, fireworks come without warning, in random bursts and patterns. Dogs can’t anticipate when the next boom will happen, which creates anxiety and panic.
3. Bright Flashes and Vibrations:
   The flashes of light can confuse and startle dogs. Vibrations traveling through the ground add to this effect. They might interpret these sensations as signs of danger.
4. Lack of Understanding:
   Dogs don’t understand what fireworks are. Their natural instinct tells them to fear loud, sudden noises. In the wild, such sounds could mean a threat or danger.
5. Association with Past Fear:
   Once a dog gets frightened by fireworks, it remembers the fear. It can react even more strongly the next time it hears similar sounds. This is a learned fear response.
6. Separation from Comfort:
   If fireworks go off when their humans aren’t nearby, dogs may feel even more unsafe. They rely heavily on their owner’s presence for reassurance.

You can help ease their fear by keeping them indoors during fireworks. Create a calm space with familiar sounds like TV or soft music. Stay close to comfort them. Some dogs also benefit from anxiety wraps or pheromone diffusers designed to reduce stress.

Hena’s Blog For Paws © 2019 by Hena Osman is licensed under CC BY 4.0