New Year’s Eve may be a time for celebration, but for many dogs, it’s a stressful and overwhelming experience. The sudden bursts of noise, flashing lights, and unusual activity can trigger anxiety—even in normally calm pups.
At Kanine Social, we see firsthand how common noise-related stress is during the holidays, and we’re here to help you prepare. Whether your dog is mildly uneasy or has a full-blown fireworks phobia, these tips can help make the night a little easier on everyone.
Before the fireworks begin, set up a cozy, quiet space where your dog can retreat. This might be a favorite crate with blankets, a corner of your bedroom, or even a closet with their bed and toys. The key is to create a den-like area that feels secure and away from windows or loud outdoor noise.
Try turning on calming background noise, like soft music, white noise, or the TV, to help muffle the sound of explosions outside.
Dogs thrive on routine, and sudden changes can heighten anxiety. Keep their feeding and potty schedule consistent throughout the day. If possible, take them for a long walk or schedule playtime earlier in the evening to help them release excess energy.
During the fireworks, stay nearby. Your presence is calming, and simply being in the same room can help your dog feel more secure. Offer pets, soothing words, or just quiet companionship—whatever your dog responds to best.
For dogs with higher levels of anxiety, there are calming tools and supportive options that may help take the edge off during loud events. Every dog responds differently, so it’s important to talk with your veterinarian about safe, appropriate recommendations based on your dog’s age, health, and anxiety level. Your vet can help determine what options, if any, are right for your pup.
At Kanine Social, we also encourage working with a positive reinforcement trainer if your dog has ongoing noise sensitivities. With the right training approach, behavior modification techniques can help build confidence and reduce stress over time—making holidays and other noisy situations more manageable in the future.
If you know your dog gets anxious, consider bringing them to daycare earlier in the day. Structured play, exercise, and social time can help release energy and reduce pent-up stress. Many of our members find their pups are much calmer (and more tired!) after a full day at Kanine Social.
Your dog doesn’t understand what fireworks mean, but with a little planning, you can help them stay safe and comfortable through the noise. Whether they’re curled up next to you or tucked away in a quiet spot, what matters most is that they feel secure.
From all of us at Kanine Social, we wish you and your pups a calm, happy, and healthy New Year.
