If you’re like me, you love the Fourth of July! But most of our dogs? Not so much. The loud pops, sudden booms, flashing lights… it can all feel really scary, especially for puppies or dogs that haven’t experienced fireworks before. But here’s the good news: you can totally help prepare your dog in the days leading up to the holiday, and it makes a big difference.

As a breeder and lifelong dog lover, I’ve found a simple and calming way to help puppies adjust to fireworks—and it starts with some practice and a little bit of planning.

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Step 1: Introduce Firework Sounds Early

This is my favorite tip because it works—and it’s so easy to do!

About a week or so before the Fourth of July, start playing firework sound playlists or YouTube videos with firework visuals on your TV. Keep the volume low at first, and let your dog hear the sounds while you’re doing something fun like playing fetch, working on training, or snuggling on the couch. You want your dog to associate the sounds with positive, safe experiences.

I’ve even created a Spotify playlist with the firework tracks I personally use with my dogs. You can find it here:
Spotify – Firework Puppy Playlist

Try to play the sounds a few times a day leading up to the holiday. As your dog gets used to the noises, you can slowly increase the volume—but only if they’re staying relaxed.

On this playlist I’ve included Fireworks, Storms, and relaxing music. I’ve found the combination of loud sounds and gentle sounds helps my dogs.

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Step 2: Vary the Timing and Volume

Dogs learn best when they don’t expect what’s coming. So instead of always playing the firework sounds at the same time, try switching it up: one morning, one afternoon, one evening. Keep your dog guessing—and learning that no matter when or how they hear the noises, nothing bad happens.

It’s also important not to blast the volume suddenly. Think of it like building a tolerance: start soft, go slow, and always pair it with a treat, playtime, or a favorite toy.

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Step 3: Create a Calm, Secure Space for the Big Night

On the actual Fourth of July, be proactive. Before the fireworks even begin, set your dog up in a safe, cozy place inside your home. Crates with blankets over the top can work great, or a quiet room where they feel relaxed and won’t be startled by windows shaking.

Then—press play on your playlist or video with the firework sounds. This gives your dog a familiar background noise, something they’ve heard before, while the real booms are happening outside. It’s not about blocking the noise—it’s about making it predictable and non-threatening.

Add in their favorite chew, snuffle mat, or enrichment toy to help them stay calm and busy.

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Bonus Tips for the Night Of

• Take potty breaks early, before the fireworks begin.
• Make sure collars are secure and your dog’s ID tags are up to date—just in case.
• Resist the urge to overly comfort or coddle your dog if they seem nervous. Instead, act normal, confident, and calm. Dogs pick up on your energy!

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You’ve Got This!

With a little prep, your puppy can have a peaceful Fourth of July—and you can enjoy the holiday knowing your dog is safe, calm, and secure. These small steps now can prevent long-term fear reactions in the future. We’ve been doing these steps with our puppies and dogs for years. It helps tremendously, and oftentimes our dogs don’t even know there is anything happening outside, because the sounds inside the house seem so normal.

If you have questions or have suggestions, reach out anytime. I’m always happy to help guide you and your pup through life’s noisy moments.

Call or text Jill at 602-628-0301
Shameless Plug: Check out our current available puppies looking for a couch to snuggle on: www.goldendoodlelovely.com