Your Dog Hates the 4th of July

Let’s be honest: the Fourth of July might be your favorite summer holiday, but to your dog? It’s the literal apocalypse.

Booms in the sky. Flashing lights. Drunk uncles. Chaos.

To them, it’s not freedom—it’s fear.

If you’ve ever watched your pup tremble, hide in the closet, or bolt under a bed while fireworks light up the sky, you already know:

🎆 The 4th isn’t festive. It’s freakin’ traumatic.

Here’s what’s really going on in that fuzzy little brain—and how you can stop being the problem and start being their peace.

Why Are Dogs Afraid of Fireworks?

Because evolution.

Dogs are hardwired to survive, not party. Loud, sudden noises = danger. So when fireworks go off, your dog doesn’t think “ooh, celebration!” They think:

RUN. HIDE. ESCAPE.

Add in the smell of smoke and unpredictable flashes of light, and your dog’s senses are on overload. It’s not overdramatic—it’s instinct.

How Do I Know If My Dog is Scared of Fireworks?

Here’s your checklist:

1. Pacing like they owe someone money
2. Shaking or trembling
3. Hiding under furniture
4. Barking or whining nonstop
5. Destructive behavior (aka: stress chewing your sneakers)
6. Accidents inside, even if fully potty trained
7. Clinginess or trying to escape

If your dog does any of these on July 4th, it’s not “quirky”—it’s stress. And ignoring it? Not cute.

Can I Take My Dog to a Fireworks Show?

Short answer?

Absolutely not.

Long answer?

Please don’t be that pet parent.

Even the most chill dog can unravel in a loud, crowded, unfamiliar setting. Add fireworks and you’re risking:

1. Permanent trauma
2. Panic-driven escape
3. Injury
4. You crying in a parking lot

Leave the fireworks to your Instagram stories. Your dog will thank you for it.

How Do I Prepare My Dog for the Fourth of July?

Here’s your survival plan:

1. Get Ahead of the Boom

Start calming aids early. Don’t wait for the first pop. We’re talking Get Zen [👈 click that] in the morning, not after they’re already spiraling. Set the tone before chaos starts.

2. Create a Safe Space

Designate a cozy, quiet spot where your dog feels secure. Think: blankets, toys, white noise machine, and absolutely no loud humans.

3. Block the Triggers

Close windows. Shut the blinds. Play calming music or turn on the TV. Drown out the noise like you’re ignoring your ex’s texts.

4. Keep Them Busy

Toys, treats, puzzles, lick mats—anything that keeps their brain working and distracted from the soundtrack of explosions.

5. Don’t Make It Worse

Don’t coddle. Don’t punish. Don’t act like it’s a big deal. Be calm, cool, and collected. Your energy = their energy.

6. Microchip + ID Check

Lost dog reports spike after fireworks. Make sure your dog’s tags and chip info are up-to-date. Just in case.

What Doolce + Diego Believes — and Why It Matters

We believe fear isn’t weakness. It’s communication.

We believe the loudest nights deserve the softest care.

And we believe that being a good dog parent means knowing when to skip the party and stay home with your best friend.

This Fourth of July, let the fireworks fly—without your dog having a meltdown.

Make the right kind of noise.

Start with support. Start with Zen.

Because peace isn’t a luxury. It’s the best gift you can give your pup.