Helping dogs cope with storms and fireworks
Updated 2026-10-16. General information, not vet advice.
Ask your vet. This guide is general information, not vet advice. It does not diagnose or give doses. Your vet knows your dog and your area, so ask them about anything specific.
Lots of dogs are scared of thunder, fireworks and other loud noises. Northern Australia has a long storm season, and there are fireworks at events and celebrations. A little planning goes a long way.
Prepare in advance
- Safe space. Set up a quiet, darker room, crate or covered pen with a bed, water and chews. Let your dog choose to go there. See crate training.
- Secure the property. Check gates, fences and doors. Scared dogs can bolt, jump or dig.
- Microchip and tags. Make sure your microchip registry details and council registration are current. See registration and microchipping.
- Know the dates. Check local event notices so you can plan.
On the day
- Walk your dog earlier, before noise starts.
- Bring your dog inside, close curtains and windows, and turn on music or TV to soften sound.
- Stay with your dog if you can. Keep your voice calm.
- Offer a chew, a lick mat or scatter feeding to give them something to do. Some dogs will be too worried to eat. That is a sign to speak to your vet.
- Never punish fear.
Helping your dog feel braver
You can help your dog get used to noise slowly (this is called desensitisation). Play recorded noises very softly while your dog does something they enjoy. Over many sessions, slowly turn the volume up. Stop if your dog shows stress. A qualified trainer or behaviour expert who uses rewards and kindness can guide you. See choosing a trainer.
Talk to your vet
If your dog is panicking, destructive, drooling heavily, shaking or refusing food during storms, talk to your vet well before the next season. Your vet can talk to you about options. A sudden change in how your dog reacts to noise can sometimes be linked to a health problem.
If your dog goes missing
Search quickly, contact your council and local vets, update your microchip registry and post on local lost-pet pages.
FAQs
Should I comfort my dog during a storm?
Most trainers say comfort is fine. You cannot make fear stronger by being kind. Stay calm and offer a safe space.
Can I give my dog medication for storms?
Only under your vet's advice. Speak to your vet well before storm or fireworks season.
Why do dogs escape during fireworks?
Scared dogs may bolt. Keep your dog inside, close the gates, and make sure your microchip and registration details are up to date.
Can a puppy be taught to like noises?
It can help to play recorded sounds very softly, a little at a time, with treats. It is best to have a qualified trainer guide you.