Managing your Pets Anxiety during Fireworks. Can CBD Oil Help?

With the Fourth of July on its way, you will likely be hearing fireworks in your neighborhood soon. If fireworks leave your dog trembling or hiding in fear, you may be wondering what you can give your pet to alleviate this anxiety. At the Animal Medical Center of Streetsboro, we recommend using CBD oil to help ease your dog’s anxiety.

Dogs are mainly afraid of fireworks due to the loud, unpredictable noise they make. These sudden bangs are not only startling—they’re also unexplainable from your dog’s point of view. As humans, even though we may jump when we hear fireworks, we know what’s happening. We can logically process the event, calm ourselves, and carry on.

Your dog, on the other hand, lacks that context. When a loud noise erupts, your dog’s body reacts with the fight-or-flight response: adrenaline surges, heart rate spikes, and it becomes hyper-alert. Without understanding that the sound is harmless, the fear escalates.

Sensory Sensitivity: A Key Factor

Dogs have incredibly sensitive hearing, four times more acute than a human’s. That booming firework in the sky? It’s far louder and more intense to your dog. This heightened sense of sound can cause even mild explosions to seem terrifying.

Some fireworks also release high-pitched whines or crackles, which can be incredibly unsettling for dogs. Additionally, the accompanying flashes of light, vibrations, and smells can overload their senses.

Other Reasons Your Dog May Be Frightened by Fireworks

Genetic Predisposition

Certain dog breeds are more prone to noise phobias than others. Dogs bred for guarding or companionship, such as Collies or Border Terriers, may be more sensitive. In contrast, breeds like Beagles, Pointers, or Retrievers—often trained for hunting—may tolerate loud noises better due to their exposure to gunfire and outdoor environments.

Past Abuse or Traumatic Experiences

If a dog has been mistreated in the past, they may associate loud, abrupt noises with trauma, such as yelling, slamming doors, or physical punishment. Fireworks may trigger those same fear-based reactions.

Lack of Early Socialization

Puppies that aren’t exposed to a range of sounds and experiences in their formative weeks may grow up to be more fearful adults. If fireworks weren’t part of your dog’s early environment, they may not know how to handle such stimuli.

How Do I Know If My Dog Is Afraid?

If your pet suffers from firework anxiety, the symptoms are often easy to recognize. These may include:

• Shaking or trembling
• Seeking comfort (clinging to you, pawing, jumping on your lap)
• Salivating or drooling
• Urinating or defecating indoors
• Pacing or restlessness
• Hiding under beds, tables, or in closets
• Whining or barking excessively
• Panting or yawning (a sign of stress)

Even if these behaviors don’t cause long-term physical harm, they create immense emotional distress and can weaken the bond of trust between you and your dog.

Using CBD Oil to Calm Your Pet

CBD (cannabidiol) is a naturally occurring compound that is extracted from hemp plants. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD does not cause a psychoactive “high.” Instead, it works with your dog’s endocannabinoid system, which plays an essential role in regulating mood, appetite, sleep, and immune function.

CBD binds to the CB1 receptor in the brain, which is associated with calming effects. Research in both animals and humans has shown that CBD may help reduce symptoms of anxiety, stress, and fear, making it a helpful tool during fireworks and other stressful events.

How to Administer CBD Oil to Your Dog

If you choose to use CBD oil:

Administer it several hours before the fireworks begin to ensure it has time to take effect.
Drop it directly into your dog’s mouth or mix it into their food or a treat.

Always follow the manufacturer’s dosage guidelines, adjusting based on:

• Your dog’s size
• Their level of anxiety
• The CBD concentration in the product

Tip: Start with a small dose and observe how your dog reacts. Your veterinarian can also help guide you on appropriate dosing and reputable brands.

Additional Ways to Calm Your Pet During Fireworks

CBD oil is a great option, but it works best when combined with other calming strategies. Here are more ways to help your dog feel safe:

1. Create a Comforting Safe Zone

• Use a quiet room with closed windows and doors.
• Add their favorite bed, blanket, and toys.
• Consider playing white noise or soft music to drown out the fireworks.

2. Use a Calming Wrap or ThunderShirt

These vests apply gentle pressure, similar to a swaddle, which can help soothe anxiety.

3. Desensitization Training

Well before the fireworks season, try gradually exposing your dog to recorded fireworks sounds. Start at low volumes while offering treats and praise, and increase the volume over time as they acclimate.

4. Exercise Before the Fireworks Begin

Give your dog a long walk or play session earlier in the day. A tired dog is more likely to rest during stressful events.

5. Behavioral Tools and Natural Remedies

• Pheromone diffusers (like Adaptil) mimic calming signals from mother dogs.
• Calming chews or treats with ingredients like L-theanine, chamomile, or melatonin may offer relief.

6. Remain Calm Yourself

Dogs take emotional cues from their humans. If you act panicked or worried, they’ll mirror your stress. Offer calm reassurance without over-coddling, which could reinforce fearful behavior.

7. Leave Town or Stay in a Quiet Location

Take a short trip to a quieter area where fireworks are less common, especially if your dog has a history of severe phobias.