An estimated 40-50% of dogs show fear responses to loud noises including fireworks and thunder, representing a major and underaddressed welfare issue.
Noise-phobic dogs experience acute fear responses including tachycardia, panting, trembling, hiding and escape attempts during firework events. Repeated exposure without treatment worsens sensitisation. Many owners underestimate severity because fear-suppressed dogs may freeze rather than vocalise. Evidence-based interventions including sound desensitisation, anxiolytic medication and environmental modification can substantially reduce suffering.