Firework phobia is one of the most common and severe welfare problems in pet dogs, with an estimated 45% of UK dogs showing fear responses. Untreated noise phobia causes intense suffering and can generalise to other loud sounds.
Noise phobia is a genuine anxiety disorder causing intense fear responses indistinguishable from panic attacks. Dogs cannot understand that the sounds are temporary and safe. Confinement during fireworks prevents escape attempts but does not address underlying fear. Repeated exposure without treatment worsens noise sensitivity over time. Effective treatment exists and is underused due to limited veterinary behaviour referral awareness.