Frenchies vs Fireworks (Happy 4th of July!)

Frenchies vs Fireworks (Happy 4th of July!)

Frenchies vs Fireworks (Happy 4th of July!) 

Hey Frenchies vs Everybody community (aka - the Frenchie Brigade)!

So many of you contributed ideas and tips to this article - so thanks to all of you who did that :) 

With the 4th of July coming up tomorrow, it’s time to prep our little monsters for the loud celebrations. Depending on your frenchie....they might be totally fine, or fireworks can be a real stressor. Knowing your Frenchie’s personality and having a game plan can make a huge difference.

Here’s a bunch of tips, gathered from right from different members of our community, to keep your little buddy calm and comfy this holiday.

Get to Know Your Frenchie's Personality

First things first, every Frenchie is different. Some are cool with loud noises, others freak out. Our boy Brock is totally fine.... Beast is a scaredy cat. Think about how your pup reacts to thunderstorms or past fireworks. If they’ve shown signs of anxiety, you’ll want to take some extra steps to keep them calm.

Good Products and Preparations

  1. Thundershirts and Weighted Blankets

    • Thundershirts: These snug shirts give your Frenchie a gentle hug, which can help calm their nerves. They’re like swaddling a baby and can be a game-changer.
    • Weighted Blankets: Similar to Thundershirts, these blankets can help by providing a sense of security. Just make sure it’s not too heavy for your little Frenchie.

  2. Leashes and Identification

    • Leashes: If you take your Frenchie outside during the fireworks, use a tight leash. Scared dogs can bolt, and you don’t want to chase them in the dark. A secure leash and harness are your best bets.
    • ID Tags: Ensure your Frenchie is wearing a collar with a name tag that includes your phone number. Microchipping is also a good idea for extra safety.

  3. Cooling Bandanas

    • Cooling Bandanas: These are great for keeping your Frenchie cool. Just soak them in water, wring them out, and tie them around your dog’s neck. They’ll help keep your pup comfy in the summer heat.

  4. Calming Supplements

    • Vet-Approved Calming Supplements: Calming chews or supplements with CBD, melatonin, or L-theanine can help reduce anxiety. Always check with your vet before giving your Frenchie anything new.  

Creating a Chill Environment

  1. Familiar Scents and Cozy Spaces

    • Shirt from the Laundry Bin: Pop a shirt that smells like you in your Frenchie’s crate or bed. Your scent can be super comforting and help them feel secure.
    • Crate Comfort: If your Frenchie likes their crate, make it extra cozy with blankets, toys, and that scented shirt. A nice, comfy crate can be a safe haven.

  2. Sound and Sensory Management

    • Turn on the A/C: The air conditioning can help drown out the sound of fireworks and keep your Frenchie cool.
    • Turn Up the TV or Play Their Favorite Movie: Playing music, turning up the TV, or even putting on your Frenchie’s favorite movie can help mask the noise. Pick something soothing like classical music or nature sounds.
    • Noise Machines and Fans: A white noise machine or a loud fan can also help block out the fireworks noise.
    • Distract with Toys: Keep your Frenchie busy with interactive toys or puzzle feeders. It’ll keep their mind off the noise outside.

  3. Medication

    • Vet-Approved Trazodone or Benadryl: In some cases, your vet might prescribe medication to help with anxiety. Trazodone and Benadryl are common options, but only use them under veterinary supervision, and in the correct doses.

  4. Environmental Control

    • Keep Windows and Doors Closed: Shut all the windows and doors to reduce the noise. Drawing the curtains can also help create a more insulated environment.
    • Dark, Small Places: Many Frenchies feel safer in dark, enclosed spaces. Provide a small, dark room or a covered crate for them to retreat to if they feel scared.

Extra Comfort Measures

  1. Cuddles and Reassurance

    • Cuddles: Your presence is incredibly reassuring to your Frenchie. A lot of Frenchies just want to be near their owners to feel safe. Spend time cuddling them and speaking in a calm, soothing voice. They look to you for cues on how to feel, so stay calm yourself.

  2. Regular Routine

    • Maintain Routine: Stick to your Frenchie’s regular schedule as much as possible. Consistency in meal times, walks, and play sessions can help provide a sense of stability.

  3. Exercise Beforehand

    • Exercise: Wear them out with a long day of exercise and walks before the fireworks start. A tired dog is a calm dog, so this can really help them relax later on.

  4. Monitor for Signs of Distress

    • Watch for Stress Signs: Keep an eye on your Frenchie for signs of distress like panting, pacing, whining, or hiding. If they seem particularly stressed, it might be time to ramp up the calming measures.

Final Thoughts

The 4th of July can be a tough time for many dogs, including our beloved Frenchies.  Like we said, one of our boys is unbothered, the other gets really scared. Please keep in mind that sometimes their reactions change overtime.  Just because they were fine last year, doesn't mean they will be this year, and vice versa.  

Remember, sometimes our frenchies play off our energy, so us being calm can help keep them calm (....sometimes).  Also, sometimes they just want to be close to us to feel safe

Have a safe and happy 4th of July, Frenchie fam, and thanks to everyone in the community who submitted suggestions for this!

Back to blog