Dogs and Fireworks: A Cosy Night In with Snuffle Games and Chews

Fireworks season can be unsettling for dogs. Whether you're preparing for Bonfire Night, New Year's Eve or a local display, planning a comforting evening at home can make a difference. Enrichment and chews may help some dogs stay occupied, but they aren't a cure for noise fear. Your dog's comfort comes first.

Create a familiar safe space before fireworks night

Choose a comfortable spot where your dog already likes to relax. Add their bed and familiar blankets, and introduce the space ahead of time so it feels welcoming rather than new. Let your dog choose whether to use it. If they want to hide, give them space; if they seek reassurance, calmly offer comfort.

Gentle background music can help soften sudden sounds. Keep the evening relaxed and avoid turning their retreat into somewhere they're forced to stay.

Give their nose something enjoyable to do

For dogs who are comfortable enough to play and eat, a familiar sniffing activity can be a lovely addition to a cosy evening. Our 6 Inch Snuffle Ball lets you tuck small treats into soft fleece layers for your dog to sniff out.

Introduce it on a quiet day first. Start with a few easy-to-find treats and let your dog explore at their own pace. On fireworks night, offer it only if they seem interested. Don't pressure a frightened dog to play or eat.

Always supervise snuffle-ball sessions, check for loose fabric or damage, and put the toy away when the treats have been found. It is an enrichment toy, not a chew toy.

Offer a supervised chew if your dog enjoys one

Dogs Trust recommends preparing favourite treats and games ahead of fireworks, including longer-lasting treats to help keep dogs occupied. A familiar chew can be an option for a dog who is settled enough to enjoy it.

Explore our Twisted Yak chews for a longer-lasting chewing option. They contain yak's milk and cow's milk, so check the ingredients against your dog's dietary needs before choosing one.

Choose a chew appropriate for your dog's size and chewing style. Supervise throughout, provide fresh drinking water and remove pieces that become small enough to swallow whole. Hard chews aren't suitable for every dog; ask your vet if you're unsure about your dog's teeth or suitability. Never leave a chew with an unattended dog.

Let your dog set the pace

Not every dog will want a snuffle game or chew during fireworks. If your dog is too worried to take treats, focus on their safe space and quiet reassurance instead. Enrichment should be an invitation, not a demand.

If your dog has significant fireworks fear, speak to your vet ahead of the next display about an individual support plan. Toys and treats should complement that support, not replace it.

A simple plan for your cosy night in

• Introduce a comfortable retreat before fireworks season.
• Try snuffle games on quiet days so they are familiar.
• Have a suitable chew ready, with supervision.
• Let your dog choose between company, activities and resting in their safe space.

Looking for enrichment for your next quiet evening together? Browse our snuffle balls and Twisted Yak chews, and choose what suits your dog.

Further reading: Dogs Trust's fireworks advice and preparing ahead for fireworks.