Why Dogs Don’t Like Fireworks | Bonfire Night Tips from Kiwi the Cockerpoo

Every Bonfire Night, many dogs become anxious because of the loud bangs, flashing lights, and unfamiliar smells that come with fireworks. Loud noises can startle humans, just like Natalie in Kiwi and the Music Festival Mystery. But if you’ve ever wondered why dogs don’t like fireworks and how to help them feel safe, Kiwi the Cockerpoo is here to explain.

Hello friends, it’s Kiwi here! 🐾

I love lots of things — squeaky toys, cuddles, and long walks in the park, just like in my story Kiwi and the Little Old Lady Mystery — but there’s one night every year that I really don’t enjoy… fireworks night!

Every 5th of November, people all over the UK celebrate Bonfire Night. It began hundreds of years ago when Guy Fawkes tried to blow up the Houses of Parliament with gunpowder. Luckily, he was stopped — and ever since, people have remembered the event with bonfires and fireworks.

It’s all very exciting for humans, but even for adventurous dogs like me, (and if you've read Kiwi's Cosmic Adventure you know I've even been to space!) it can be really scary. Here’s why:

💥 They’re too loud!

Dogs have super-sensitive hearing — we can hear things four times farther away than you can. So when fireworks bang, crackle and whistle, it sounds incredibly loud to us! Even fireworks far away can make our ears hurt or make us jump.

🌈 They flash and flicker

Fireworks light up the sky with big bursts of colour. That’s fun to watch, but to a dog it looks like the world is suddenly flashing and changing shape. It’s confusing and makes us feel unsafe, especially if we don’t know where the lights are coming from.

😨 We don’t understand what’s happening

Humans know fireworks are just for fun. But dogs don’t know what they are — we just hear loud bangs, see bright lights, and smell smoke. It’s all very strange! So we sometimes shake, hide under beds, or even try to run away to somewhere quiet.

🏡 How to help your dog on fireworks night

If you’ve got a dog like me, here’s what you can do to help them feel better:

• Keep us indoors before it gets dark.

• Close windows and curtains to muffle the sound.

• Turn on the TV or music to hide the bangs.

• Make a cosy den or safe place with blankets and toys.

• Try not to fuss too much — we’ll feel safer if you act calm and normal.

• And remember, don’t take us out for a walk when the fireworks are going off — we’d much rather stay home and snuggle!

  
  

When the bangs finally stop, we dogs are very relieved — and then we can go back to our favourite things: peace, quiet, and maybe a biscuit or two.

Stay safe this Bonfire Night, everyone — and please think of us four-legged friends when you’re lighting those sparklers!

It’s worth remembering that fireworks aren’t the only thing that can make dogs feel nervous. Thunderstorms, sudden loud noises, and flashing lights can all be unsettling too, especially for sensitive dogs such as Cockapoos and Cockerpoos. You can read more about cockapoo temperament here.

If you'd like to know more about my adventures, visit my Stories page or find all of my adventures safely tucked up together in the shop.

A calm home, a cosy safe space, and plenty of reassurance can make all the difference.

Love,Kiwi 🐾

Frequently Asked Questions About Dogs and Fireworks on Bonfire Night

Why do dogs get scared of fireworks?

Dogs have much more sensitive hearing than humans, so fireworks can sound painfully loud.

Can Cockapoos be frightened of fireworks?

Yes, Cockapoos are often very people-focused and can be sensitive to sudden loud noises.

Should I walk my dog during fireworks?

It’s best to walk them earlier in the day before dark.

Written by Claire, creator of the Kiwi the Cockerpoo stories inspired by everyday life with a curious little companion. Updated March 2026