Guide · Fireworks
Fireworks without the fear.
From Bonfire Night through Diwali to Hogmanay, Edinburgh has weeks of fireworks, often across several nights. With a little planning most dogs get through them far more calmly. Here’s the plan we use.
Updated 26 October 2026
Start a few days before
- Make a den: a covered crate or a quiet corner with their bed, an old jumper that smells of you and a blanket over the top. Leave it open so they can come and go.
- Choose the room that’s quietest and furthest from the street, and let your dog use it in the days before so it already feels safe.
- Check their collar tag and that their microchip details are up to date. Frightened dogs can bolt, and fireworks nights are when most go missing.
- If your dog has struggled before, speak to your vet now rather than on the night. They can talk you through options that suit your dog.
On fireworks nights
- Walk earlier, in daylight, on a lead — even dogs with perfect recall can panic at a sudden bang.
- Feed dinner a little earlier, and give them a long-lasting chew or a stuffed food toy once the noise starts.
- Close curtains and windows before dark, and put the radio or TV on to soften the bangs.
- Keep doors closed and check the garden is secure before letting them out for a wee.
- Stay home if you can. Comfort your dog if they come to you: it won’t make them more afraid. Stay calm yourself, and never tell them off for being scared.
- Let them hide if they want to. Don’t pull them out of the den.
Signs your dog is finding it hard
Panting, pacing, trembling, hiding, clinging to you, barking, drooling or trying to get out are all common signs of fear. If your dog seems very distressed, or anything worries you about their health, call your vet.
For next year
Fear of noises often gets better with gentle, gradual practice: very quiet firework sounds while something good happens, increased slowly over weeks. Start in spring, not October. A qualified behaviourist can help you plan it, especially for dogs who are very frightened.
Walks and visits with ORLAGH’S around fireworks
Around the big fireworks nights we walk dogs earlier in the day and keep every dog on a lead. If your dog will be on their own on a fireworks night, a pet sitting visit means someone calm is there to check on them.
This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. If you’re worried about your dog’s health or behaviour, please speak to your vet.
