Happy 4th of July to our friends in the USA! BBQ, family time, baseball, fireworks... The All American summer. Your dog might love the lingering smell coming from your grill, but he might not feel the same way about fireworks. Here are four tips that help your dog to cope with fireworks tonight.
Photo by: Perry DeWitt
Keep calm
If you stress most of the day - your dog will be stressed too. Remember to have "one mind" with your dog, and stay calm so your dog will stay calm too. Keep an upbeat, serene attitude about the partying going on and about the fireworks, and don’t make a big deal out of your dog’s nervousness, he will take a cue from you and mirror that behavior.
Lead with body language
While soothing words can help calm your own nerves, body language is what your dog naturally understands and responds to first. When it comes to dogs, non-verbal communication speaks much louder than any words you could possibly say. Communicate to your dog that it’s okay to hide in a safe place by showing him—not telling him—where to go.
Reassure with small treat portions
Reward your dog throughout the day using smaller bits of treats. After all, he is a real champ for making it through such a loud, exciting holiday! To keep your dog interested in remaining calm and following your lead, spend time finding which treat works best as an incentive.
Try to make it fun by preparing well
If you are heading out to a party with your dog, take food and toys – and find out where your dog can go to rest and take a break from all the action. If you are leaving your dog at home, be sure to give him all the toys and food he needs to make it through the day. Another pro tip: Leave one of your unwashed shirts out for him to cuddle up to if he gets nervous. The familiar smell will help calm him down.
Photo by: Perry DeWitt
Share your party pictures!
How are you celebrating 4th of July with your dog? Share on Instagram and use #oneminddogs so our members all around the world will see how you celebrate the Independence Day. Follow OneMindDogs on Instagram!
