Fireworks and Frightened Dogs: How Dogrobes and Snoods Help Calm Your Dog

When fireworks fill the sky, they thrill us but can frighten our dogs. With Bonfire Night fast approaching, it’s time to prepare your four-legged friend for the sights and sounds ahead.

At Dogrobes, we know how important it is to keep dogs calm, warm and secure — and our Dogrobes and Snoods can make a real difference when fireworks start to fly.

From 27th October, enjoy £5 off Snoods – a little comfort for your dog, a little saving for you.

Why dogs get stressed during fireworks

Fireworks can be frightening for dogs because of the unpredictable bangs, flashes and smells. Dogs hear at much higher frequencies than humans, so distant explosions can sound alarmingly close. The bright lights and acrid odours can be confusing and overwhelming for their sensitive senses.

Their confusion and lack of control over what’s happening can trigger the fight-or-flight response. They may bark excessively or whimper at the sound of them. But not all signs of distress will be as obvious as this. The fear and anxiety dogs experience during fireworks can cause them to act out in ways they normally wouldn't - like becoming destructive. It's important to recognise these behaviours and take steps to help your dog feel calm and safe during fireworks.

According to the Kennel Club, nearly a third of dog owners (30%) say their dog is scared by fireworks and there’s been an 81% increase in dogs going missing during fireworks season.

How Dogrobes help calm dogs

A Dogrobe isn’t just a drying coat — it’s a 3-in-1 design that dries, warms and comforts. When tied snugly around your dog’s body, it applies gentle, even pressure, similar to swaddling, which can calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety. The Dogrobe can stay like this on the dog for up to 2-3 hours.

Made from soft, lightweight, breathable cotton towelling, Dogrobes are even tolerated by dogs who dislike wearing coats. The tie design — not Velcro — ensures a secure, quiet fit every time.

“Not only a cosy drying option but great for keeping our dog calm." Margaret M

Each of our three styles — Original,MAX, and Exclusive — offers the same comfort and calming benefits, so you can choose your favourite style, colour or pattern.

Snoods: Small Accessory, Big Comfort

Our Snoods were designed to dry your dog’s head, neck and ears — but they’re brilliant for keeping sound-sensitive dogs calm.

There are two ways to wear a Snood — like a neck buff or pulled up as a hood. For fireworks, it’s best worn like a hood to help muffle sound and give that comforting, enclosed feel.

Most dogs drop down a size from their Dogrobe when wearing it this way, but it’s always best to check our Snood Size Guide to be sure.

The gentle pressure creates a calming ‘hug’ effect, releasing endorphins that promote well-being. Covering the ears reduces noise and pulling the Snood over the eyes helps block flashes of light too.

Our Snoods are specially designed to fit gently around your dog’s head, neck and ears, creating a feeling of calm security. 

• The soft, cotton towelling muffles sharp noises
• The gentle pressure offers a soothing, hug-like effect
• The lightweight, breathable fabric adds warmth without overheating
• They’re made in Britain, from the same dual-layer cotton towelling as our famous Dogrobes

Many owners tell us their dogs visibly relax once their Snood is on — and that sense of calm can last long after the fireworks fade.

“Love all Dogrobes Snoods. Brilliant for firework season and blow-dry time — really helps calm our dog.” Anke B

Using a Dogrobe and Snood together with other calming methods

The combination of a Dogrobe and Snood offers all-round protection — calming pressure around the body and gentle muffling for the ears.

You could try using calming sprays such as Pet Remedy Mini Calming Spray, to see if they have a postitive effect on your dog. (Available on our website here.)

Don't forget to introduce the scent a few days before Bonfire Night. Spray a small amount onto your dog's Snood or cloth so your dog associates it with relaxation, not fireworks.

And don’t forget the power of touch — stroking your dog slowly, or even using our Gauntlets for a softer feel, can help them relax further.

Simple Ways to Keep Dogs Calm on Fireworks Night

While a Dogrobe and Snood can be incredibly effective in reducing anxiety and stress in dogs during fireworks, it's important to use them in combination with other calming methods.

Help your dog stay calm and comfortable with these tried-and-tested tips:

• Close windows, doors and curtains to muffle noise and hide flashes
• Play soothing music or TV — there are lots of playlists available to keep your dog calm and Classic FM’s Pet Classics returns on Wed 5 Nov and Sat 8 Nov 2025, 5pm – 9pm
• Keep sound consistent by leaving the TV or radio on a little louder than usual
• Create a safe space with their bed, blankets and favourite toys
• Walk early in the day before fireworks begin
• Feed before dark so they’re settled for the evening
• Ensure fresh water — anxious dogs pant more and become thirsty
• Keep your dog mentally stimulated — play with them, give them positive attention and try things like puzzle balls to keep them occupied
• Keep calm yourself — dogs mirror our emotions 
• Slip on their Dogrobe and Snood sprayed with Pet Remedy Calming Spray
• Check collars and microchips are up to date to prevent heartbreak if they bolt

Did you know? The Kennel Club reports more dogs go missing during fireworks season than at any other time of year.

Final Thought

Fireworks night doesn’t have to be frightening. With the right preparation — and the comfort of a Dogrobe and Snood — you can help your dog stay calm, cosy and safe when the sky lights up.

£5 off Snoods until 5th November – keep your dog calm this fireworks season