New Year's Eve with your dog – How to calm your dog's fear of fireworks

Targeted firework training helps many dogs get used to the noise. Typical New Year's Eve noises are played at low volume and gradually increased – always in a safe environment and with positive reinforcement, of course. Ideally, start several weeks before New Year's Eve or train your dog from puppyhood. For fearful dogs, the support of an experienced dog trainer can be helpful.

Provide a quiet, darkened room where your dog feels safe. A cosy den, blankets or the proximity of familiar people provide security. Make sure that your dog can decide for itself where it wants to be at all times.

When dogs react fearfully, our first impulse is often to comfort them immediately. Closeness and affection are important – but too much protection can have the opposite effect: the dog experiences the situation as even more threatening when we accompany it with special care. This quickly creates the impression: ‘My human is also worried – so the danger must have been real.’

A calm, safe environment often helps more than excessive care. Dogs are strongly influenced by our body language and mood. If you remain calm and confident, you send your pet an important signal: everything is fine, you are safe.

Keep the daily routine as normal as possible. Feeding, walks and playtimes should take place as usual. The less that changes, the more stable your dog will feel. Avoid excessive excitement – even transferring nervousness can have a negative effect.

You should take your last walk in the afternoon at the latest – always on a lead! Even dogs that are not easily frightened can be startled by a sudden bang and run away. We recommend securing your dog twice on New Year's Eve (e.g. with a harness and collar).

For dogs that are particularly sensitive to noise, there are special ear protectors for New Year's Eve or sound-reducing dog hoods. These products can help reduce noise pollution. Important: get your dog used to them in good time and do not force them to wear them.

Simple everyday measures can also make a difference: close windows and doors, pull down the shutters or darken the room with curtains. In addition, soothing music or a running television can help to drown out the sound of fireworks. The quieter the environment, the better your dog will be able to relax.

Many pet owners rely on natural calming remedies for dogs on New Year's Eve – e.g. dietary supplements containing L-tryptophan, valerian or magnesium. These supplements can help promote inner balance without causing drowsiness.

Sometimes it helps to consciously redirect your dog's focus. Light games, chews or a new activity can help to ease the tense situation – provided your dog is able to respond to them. Chew or lick toys that keep your dog occupied for longer and have a calming effect, or distractions such as smells and treats, have proven particularly effective.

Physical closeness can have a big impact: when you stroke your dog or speak to them calmly, oxytocin – also known as the “cuddle hormone” – is released in the body. It promotes trust, has been proven to reduce stress hormones and helps your dog to relax. Your affection acts as an anchor and shows your dog that they are safe, even when things get noisy outside.

If your dog suffers from severe panic, talk to your vet at an early stage. There are calming medications that can be tailored to individual needs. Important: Never give medication without consulting your vet first – every animal reacts differently.

Dogs hear many times better than we humans do. A firework that is just loud to us can feel like a thunderstorm in their heads. Many dogs react with stress symptoms such as trembling, panting, restlessness or withdrawal. Some refuse food or panic and look for a place to hide – and it is not uncommon for dogs to still be disturbed after New Year's Eve. This reaction is not a weakness, but a natural protective mechanism.

New Year's Eve doesn't have to be a state of emergency. With good preparation, loving companionship and targeted support, you can help your dog get through this special night more calmly. And if your pet is particularly sensitive, a change of scenery can also help: sometimes it's better to leave the hustle and bustle behind and find a quiet place in the countryside together – far away from densely populated cities and fireworks.

And one more thought: New Year's Eve is a time of celebration for many – but not for everyone. Think of the animals in your neighbourhood, for whom every firecracker can be stressful. A little consideration goes a long way – for more peace, security and togetherness.

BEST FRIENDS. DESERVE THE BEST.