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LAST UPDATE | 31 Oct 2024
HALLOWEEN IS A time of fun and excitement, but for many dogs, the holiday brings stress and anxiety — particularly due to fireworks and unexpected loud noises.
Understanding why dogs respond so strongly to these sounds and implementing calming techniques can make Halloween a safer and more comfortable experience for your furry friend.
1. Dogs’ enhanced hearing sensitivity
Dogs have an acute sense of hearing, detecting frequencies up to 65,000 Hz compared to humans’ range of 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz. Fireworks, which emit high-frequency sounds, are perceived much more intensely by dogs, often feeling closer to the volume of a jet engine than a celebratory noise. The sudden, unpredictable loudness of fireworks can be overwhelming, leading to fear and stress in dogs.
Dogs also hear sounds at a much lower decibel than humans. Fireworks can reach up to 150 decibels, which is similar to a jet engine taking off and far exceeds the comfort threshold for dogs. This makes fireworks not just loud but overwhelmingly intense for them.
2. The unpredictable nature of fireworks
While fireworks are loud and startling for us, they’re often experienced as overwhelming and almost inescapable for dogs. Their enhanced sensitivity means fireworks can feel like an immediate threat, leading to anxiety responses we don’t experience. Humans also understand that fireworks are safe, but dogs can’t rationalise the sounds.
Unlike thunder, which often builds gradually, fireworks erupt without warning and include bright flashes and loud booms. This unpredictability disrupts dogs’ natural sense of routine and can heighten their fear. Since dogs are highly sensitive to patterns, this unexpected “threat” can lead to prolonged anxiety and make dogs feel insecure in their own homes. This is particularly the case for dogs already dealing with anxiety and physical discomfort. The shock of fireworks can trigger sudden pain in dogs with musculoskeletal issues.
The “fight or flight” response is an evolutionary trait meant to protect dogs from danger and is often triggered by loud, startling noises. Since dogs can’t easily escape from the sound of fireworks, they may respond with behaviours like shaking, panting, pacing or hiding. This reaction is not only instinctual but also involuntary, making it difficult for them to feel at ease once the fireworks begin.
Additionally, the sensory overload from both the sound and vibrations of fireworks can amplify their fear, as dogs are highly tuned into their surroundings.
Creating a calm, secure environment is essential to help dogs feel safe during loud events like Halloween. Here are some research-backed strategies and calming techniques that can support your dog through the season:
1. Prepare a safe space
Create a comfortable, enclosed space for your dog away from windows and external noise. Set up their bed with familiar blankets, something that smells of their favourite person and toys, as these can provide comfort and a sense of security.
If possible, close windows and draw curtains to dampen noise and block the flashing lights from fireworks. Many dogs feel more secure in smaller spaces, so a crate (if they are crate-trained) or a cosy corner can be a great refuge.
2. Use calming music or sounds
Music therapy has shown promising effects on dogs’ stress levels. A study in 2012 demonstrated that classical music could calm dogs, though the soothing effect diminishes over time with repeated exposure.
To explore this further, a team from the University of Glasgow and the Scottish SPCA looked into whether changing the type of music might have a longer-lasting effect. Their study, published in Physiology & Behaviour, involved 38 dogs in a shelter. They monitored each dog’s behaviour, heart rate variability (a measure of stress), and stress hormone levels while exposing them to a variety of music genres—including classical, soft rock, Motown, pop and reggae. Each day, the dogs listened to a different genre for six hours.
Interestingly, all types of music helped reduce stress to some extent, but soft rock and reggae had the best results. The dogs spent more time lying down or standing calmly rather than pacing, though their barking stayed the same during the music. In fact, after the music stopped, the dogs barked more, almost as if they were missing the tunes! Most importantly, the research found that switching between different music styles kept the calming effect going, unlike playing the same genre over and over, which can lose its effect.
Professor Neil Evans from the University of Glasgow noted that not all dogs reacted the same way, suggesting that, just like humans, dogs have individual music preferences. That said, reggae and soft rock seemed to consistently bring out the best in them.
Interestingly, older dogs (over eight years) didn’t benefit as much from the music, indicating they might prefer a quieter environment. It is therefore recommended to use white noise rather than music for older dogs to help them cope with the sound of fireworks.
3. Offer natural calming aids
Certain natural remedies, like chamomile tea, can help dogs relax. Chamomile contains mild sedative properties that are safe for dogs in small amounts and may help reduce anxiety. You can try offering your dog a small amount of cooled chamomile tea (consulting your vet first for appropriate dosages) to help them feel more at ease.
Other calming options include valerian root and dog-safe essential oils like lavender, which has shown mild anti-anxiety effects in dogs. However, always consult your vet before using herbal remedies, as some dogs may be sensitive to certain substances.
If you feel that your dog’s fear of Halloween festivities is particularly intense, consider speaking with your veterinarian about a short-term anti-anxiety medication to help them stay calm.
4. Use calming accessories
Calming coats or wraps, such as the Thundershirt, work by applying gentle, constant pressure, which can have a soothing effect on anxious dogs. This technique is based on pressure therapy, similar to swaddling a baby, and can be helpful for some dogs during fireworks or other stress-inducing situations. They can help reduce anxiety symptoms, such as shaking or pacing, by making dogs feel secure.
5. Provide enrichment and distraction
Licking and chewing are naturally calming for dogs. Offer a long-lasting chew toy, a frozen Kong stuffed with peanut butter, or a lick mat with spreadable treats like pumpkin or natural yoghurt. These activities release endorphins and keep them focused and relaxed.
6. Practise gradual desensitisation
For dogs with severe noise anxiety, desensitisation can be helpful in the long term. Play recordings of fireworks or other loud noises at a low enough volume that your dog doesn’t show any reaction. Gradually increase the volume over time at a pace that your dog can manage. This method can be highly effective but takes time and consistency, so starting well before Halloween can be beneficial.
If your dog experiences severe anxiety, consulting with a qualified canine behaviourist may be helpful.
Stick to routine: Dogs find comfort in routine, so try to keep feeding and walking schedules as consistent as possible around Halloween. Familiarity can help provide a sense of security.
Exercise earlier in the day: Physical activity can help burn off excess energy and reduce anxiety. Plan for a long walk or play session earlier in the day, so your dog is more likely to rest during the evening. Attach one lead to your dog’s collar and another to a harness to prevent accidental escapes.
Supervise child-dog interactions closely: Assign an adult to supervise the dog, keeping them away from the excitement and potential frights of Halloween activities. This can help prevent stress and give the dog a calm space to retreat to.
Avoid taking dogs to events: Halloween parties, bonfires, fireworks displays, and trick-or-treating can be overwhelming for dogs. Instead, allow children to enjoy the festivities while letting dogs relax in a safe, quiet space.
Plan for trick-or-treaters: Ensure at least one secure door separates your dog from visitors. Designate one adult to manage your dog and another to answer the door or even better meet people at your gate instead of encouraging them to ring your doorbell.
Keep Halloween treats and decorations out of reach: Halloween treats and some decorations can be hazardous if ingested, so keep them away from pets. Also, give dogs space from decorations they may find unsettling.
Check ID tags and microchip: Ensure your dog is wearing current identification and that their microchip is working and updated with current details.
Finally, always comfort your dog by allowing them to choose how they want to be comforted. Some dogs may want to be close to you, sitting beside or even on you; others might prefer gentle contact, a soothing massage, or soft petting. Some dogs may choose to settle away from you, perhaps in their safe space, simply reassured by your nearby presence. Let them decide what makes them feel most secure and make Halloween a safer, less stressful time.
Suzi Walsh is an expert dog behaviourist and dog trainer. She has an honours degree in Zoology and a Masters in Applied Animal Welfare and Behaviour from the Royal Dick School of Veterinary. She has worked as a behaviourist on both TV, radio and has also worked training dogs in the film industry.
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Increase the minimum sentence FFS. Increasing the maximum is just window dressing!!!
@Willie Murphy: More virtual signalling,why did they have to wait till not,they are long enough in power,and knife crime has been around a long time
@Willie Murphy: there is no minimum sentencing here.
Won’t work cos Judges won’t implement sentences
@James Gorman: Especially Judge Nolan!
We need a competent Justice Minister who will address basic law and order issues. McEntee is interested only in hate crimes law and other woke projects!
@Brian Hunt: unfortunately those in politics who prioritize law and order over hate speech and other woke issues are unlikely to be appointed as Minister for Justice.
@Nodon: exactly
@Brian Hunt: Absolutely,a guy last week received a disgraceful 4 year sentence,for an absolute horrendous crime,he had well over a hundred convictions.I think the judges have to be held to account .Maybe have a referendum that judges can be sacked , and not on virtual signalling matters that the vast majority dont care about,and that doesnt make any practical sense
@John Hendrick: And the article above,2 and a half years for abusing his daughter for a period of two years, absolutely shockingly lenient sentences for terrible crimes.
@John Hendrick: I’ve said it a million times before, it’s not the judges, it’s the sentencing laws. Judges have to sentence within very tight parameters. They can’t just make up a number. If they did it would be appealed and overturned, costing tax payers money and clogging up the system. Longer headline sentences for violent/serious crimes is what is needed.
No deterrent currently, teenagers going around carrying meat cleavers mugging people.
10 years minimum sentence end of. Zero tolerance needs to apply.
@James Carolan: agreed. And 5 years if you’re caught carrying a knife
@James Carolan: Can’t send a teen down like that. Poor little lads, broken home…………..etc. etc. Verbal warning no record or conviction and back out.
Ffg stoking fears about knife crime , Back in the 80s knifes where the main weapon in violent deaths , But I seem to remember it was manslaughter the perpetrators where charged with . Our population has almost doubled in the last 50 years, But the entitled chancers that rule us pretend , that has nothing to do with social issues
@Robert Halvey: it has to do with the culture among certain groups and how lenient the justice system is. Anyone who commits a violent crime against somebody else needs to know the chance is high that they will be caught and that they will be punished in a way that will make them suffer for a very long time. Hugs and kisses won’t cut it. We need to stop being so soft.
@Tom D: Speak for yourself! Empathy and understanding are never wasted. Punishment where punishment is warranted obviously but only effective punishment or it’s a waste of time! What groups specifically since you know all about it clearly?
@Chutes: you’re more interested in pointless name calling, why should anyone bother?
Without this being implemented as soon as possible, Dublin will be like an extension of London in the years to come. No comment on who’ll be involved. That would not be PC
@Sean oSuilleabhain: we’re on a seriously slippy slope at the moment and I can only see it getting worse.
@Sean oSuilleabhain: wow I didn’t know, thanks for alerting me that the vast majority of knife crime isn’t Irish born, I didn’t know until you alluded to it, could you post your stats because you seem very certain?
@Sean oSuilleabhain: Racist.
@Chutes: No. Just against knife crime and saying who is disproportionately represented in the stats is factual,
Longer sentences will change nothing. This is lazy, knee-jerk window dressing.
@Seanfhear míshásta: Increasing maximum sentences does nothing. Minimum sentences should be increased, and the first step is building a huge prison or two.
@ecrowley ecrowley: Actually, first step is a new, competent minister.
@ecrowley ecrowley: there is no minimum sentencing within Irish law
@Gearoid MacEachaidh: Indeed, and therein lies the problem. Increasing maximum sentences is pointless. Judges don’t hit the upper end of the scale except in very rare instances.
@ecrowley ecrowley: because in law they have to allow for mitigation. The entire sentencing structure needs changing, agreed, but minimum sentencing doesn’t really work. There are variants in most crimes. There are some crimes where a person deserves prison time and some people for the exact same crime who don’t, first offence, age etc. I’d be all in favour for mandatory minimums for murder, like they do in the UK. For rape too. But with most crimes they just need to increase the maximum. If the maximum for an offence is 5 years, which it is for many sex offences, you can get that down to 1 year or less very quickly with mitigation. But if the headline is increased to 10 years for example, you’ll get a decent sentence after mitigation. Also concurrent sentences should be used far less.
@Gearoid MacEachaidh: I agree with much of what you said, and I would only be talking about minimum sentences for serious crimes, and I’d include knife possession in that. There should be a proper deterrent. You are quite right about concurrent sentences. 3crimes for the price of 1 is ridiculous.
Build lots of new prisons. We’ll need them with our changing demographic.
The prisons are full so this is a complete gaslighting job. Last prison built was Wheatfield in 1989, thirty five years ago. The population of Ireland and the rate of violent crime have both increased dramatically since then.
@John Fahy: was Midlands not built after that?. But you’re right. Dublin needs another large prison.
@Gearoid MacEachaidh: You’ll fill as many as you’d like to build, there’s always some moralising *rick only too happy to lock folks up and forget about them until they are released, with no attempts towards rehabilitation at least no effective ones apparently.
They’ll all happily take their cheques from a public convinced through ignorance that prisons are actually effective or even useful in their current guise. Even a cursory examination of the system demands more than this nonsense imo.
For Christ sake, get real. These types of crimes, including burglaries, serious assaults, murders etc need to deal with far more severe. Its common knowledge that these people are released early from prison 5 years should mean 5 years !!! BUILD MORE PRISONS . In this country, it’s all about the offender, but absolutely nothing about the victim. The offenders should be treated as dogs
@Michael Nyhan: absolutely, couldn’t agree more.
@Michael Nyhan: “The offenders should be treated as dogs” says it all about you!
@Chutes: Yeah when some 25 year old punk with 50 prior convictions terrorises a pensioner in their homes with a knife in a robbery what he needs is TLC. A lot of these lads are beyond rehabilitation. They are predators and lack the empathy that most of us have. They need to be deterred by threat a severe punishment and that doesn’t work society needs to be protected from them by locking them up.
@Tom D: If you actually knew anything about them you’d know there’s no such thing as a deterrent. “A lot of these lads are beyond rehabilitation.” how do you know? You work with any, know any? How Tom are you so certain? As for TLC, most of them see not a lot of that and I never said anything even remotely like that
There should be a MINIMUM sentence of 10 years for knife crimes.
Figure out a way to make it illegal to use the hood on a hoodie!
So politicians get longer sentences for stabbing each other in the back?
Nothing on any main media,about the Irish girl sexually abused on the airplane flight..your man was not Irish,I think he was about 60,the court case was last week,I think limerick but could be wrong which County,the judge told him you were drunk,and your basically a good man and wouldn’t have done it unless u had drink in u,if I was that girls mother,I would bring a civil case against the judge,but jail someone for genuinely not been able to afford a TV license..it seems the Irish people are the only 1s committing crime..how backward and stupid r we,to blame someone of a differnt colour or nationality,when we had all these crimes and problems already
@Kathleen Peters: Yes there was.Google it instead of coming on here posting false claims.
@Alan Cooke: But how would she demonstrate her racist leanings?
Is The Journal.ie in danger of becoming a eunuch as most comment sections are closed?
@Charlie Arum: Not sure a news organisation can be a eunuch, maybe check the definition again? Why do you think comments close?
America has longer sentences for knife crime how’s that working out !!!?
@joe kelly: In Singapore, you’ll get whipped. How is that working out.
No great objection to this but would also like to see increased sentences for financial crimes.
@Padraig O’Brien: I doubt very much we’ll see that! Financial crime is arguably worse than knife crime.
No
Carrying a knife shouldn’t carry a sentence imo, it’s a defensive weapon and a tool. It only becomes a problem when used offensively. All citizens should be able to protect themselves in a dangerous environment, use of minimum force applies but sometimes minimum is considerable, it just has to be justified. I wonder how many sexual assault victims would have welcomed a knife?
@Chutes: Maybe guns would be better. Can’t imagine anything going wrong…
@ecrowley ecrowley: The point is, you shouldn’t jail anyone for a crime they might commit, there is an assumption here that a crime will be committed if a knife is carried. That’s an assumption too far! Presumptive guilt.
You shouldn’t criminalise defensive postures!
@Chutes: Again, I don’t see the difference with guns. You could argue that it’s fine possessing and walking around with one as long as you don’t shoot anyone. Unless you happen to be attacked, in which case Phew, thank f*%k I had my gun.
@Chutes: So you carry around a knife yourself then ? Did you buy one specifically for ‘out and about’ purposes or do ya just take whats handy from the knife block when you’re heading put for a pint ?
@ecrowley ecrowley: Ex military. You see no difference because there is none.
@Brian: Catch a hold of yourself will ya? You know carrying knives is illegal right?
@Chutes: So where does this fall with your “presumptive guilt” stance?
@ecrowley ecrowley: Where does what fall?
@Chutes: Your response to Brian is at odds with your earlier comment that one shouldn’t be arrested for possessing a knife. That merely possessing a knife doesn’t mean you’re going to commit a crime.
@Chutes: Ohhh, so you just wish you could carry one heading out for a pint without it being illegal.. gotcha.
@Brian: Child!
@ecrowley ecrowley: Try keep up! Maybe read it again and then point out the disparity. Merely possessing a knife does not mean you’ll commit crime, how many use knives in their daily work?
Should they be arrested if they go for a roll in the garage with one still in their pocket? The crime is in the type of use, offensively, not the carrying. If I go camping, should the Gardaí be out looking for me and other campers who carry knives.
Should anyone who waits tables in a restaurant be prosecuted?
Carrying a knife does not signal intent to carry out a crime! This is an ill considered law at best!
@Chutes: Yet you smartarsedly asked Brian if he knew it was illegal to carry a knife. It’s you that needs to keep up. And not even with me, but with your own contradictions. Assuming you can comprehend your own nonsense arguments about how carrying a knife is grand.
@Chutes: lol.. you serious ? Do you or do you not want to walk around with a knife.. you’re the one advocating decriminalisation of the possession of a knife.. and if you don’t,you need to explain your reasons why .. and if you do you also need to explain your reason why.. its not a very difficult train of thought to follow for an adult..
@Chutes: I’ve never heard so much retrded bs in my life .. ohh you’re so right.. I mean the amount of carpet layers arrested going for a smoke last year was off the charts. And don’t get me started on all the scouts who were raided while camping last year.. ! Can you be any more pathetic in your argument for legalising possession of a knife ?
@ecrowley ecrowley: & @Brian. I see you are failing to understand, that’s not my problem. @Brian Carrying knives is illegal regardless of my opinion. So I don’t carry one, does that satisfy you? Coz I have no need to explain myself to some randomer on the net who doesn’t get it any more than I already have.
You two are clearly incapable of the kind of thought that is required on issues such as this, you share that with politicians.
@Chutes: So you’re saying it’s illegal to carry a knife but it should be legal? And by extension from an earlier comment it should be legal to carry a gun. Similarly to a knife, it’s ok to possess one as long as it’s not used unless in a defensive manner. So you’d be of a similar mind as those apes Stateside who see nothing wrong with carrying weapons?
@Chutes: you’re the one rambling on about defensive postures and people camping being arrested in your rage against the machine. The law already provides for the nonsensical scenario’s you cited..’it is a defence if the person proves that he had the same with good reason or lawful authority including, for example, for work or recreational purposes’.educate yourself before you make a fool of yourself. God only knows what you’re raging against here .. but the upshot of your ramblings is your down with people roaming our streets with knives and I shouldn’t jump to any conclusions or engage in presumptive guilt when teens are walking around the city centre with 6/8/10/12 inch knifes concealed on their persons.. ‘catch a hold of yourself’ indeed.
We all been stabbed in the back by this gov
This is all just the usual sht/low hanging fruit in the run up to election, trite!
I…just like most people that click onto the Journal are totally pissed off with nearly every Comment Sections closed … Will you get a grip….
Good news announced. Whingers whinge in their haste to behave like sheep.
@Sun Rise: Your comment is the most conformist of them all. Nice bit of fence-sitting. If you’re going to post something at least take a position instead of calling people who disagree with this trite political posturing by McEntee “whingers”.
Haha useless
The puss on you
have your say