Fireworks are not a fun thing for many dogs
Here is the explanation of why there are certain dogs that are scared of fireworks which most people love to watch.
Fireworks are part of many people’s celebrations throughout the year, like the usual New Year countdown. Big events around the globe showcase amazing fireworks displays. While people are enjoying this, some animals get scared.
Based on the article in Reader’s Digest there are several reasons why a dog would hate fireworks. The loud noise is definitely deafening and can be irritating but dogs don’t react like this to other loud noises.
What is it in fireworks that makes a dog scared? Gary Richter, DVM, a veterinarian and the founder of Ultimate Pet Nutrition explained that from a dog’s perspective, there is no ability to reason out why the noise is happening and where the noise is coming from.
Not knowing the source of the loud noise can be disconcerting to them, as it could mean danger. The loud cracking, popping, and explosion-like sound can trigger the dog’s fight-or-flight response of dogs. This response can be exhibited in different ways.
You may have thought that as your dog will get exposed to this kind of noise over and over again, your pet will get used to it. However, this is not what happens. Kwane Stewart, DVM, a veterinarian based in California, said, “Rather than becoming desensitized, a dog’s fight-or-flight reaction can be heightened boom after boom, or year after year.” It means that your dog’s reaction becomes more intense as years pass by.
Based on a study in Finland from August 2020 that involved 13,700 dog owners, it was found that 70 percent of the dogs are afraid of fireworks.
Among the dog breeds, here are the breeds that are more scared of fireworks:
- Cairn terrier
- Mixed breeds
- Pembroke Welsh corgi
- Jack Russell terrier
- Finnish Lapponian
On the other hand, these are the breeds that are less afraid of the loud noise from fireworks:
- Labrador retriever
- German shepherd
- Miniature poodle
- Chinese crested
- Chihuahua
Here is a video from McCann Dog Training on how you can help your dog deal with fireworks and thunders.
For your dog’s physical health, you can also learn about Dog Heat Stroke Symptoms.