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New Years with greyhounds

Dec 10, 2025

As the New Year approaches it’s time to start planning parties, food, drinks, celebration, resolutions, and how to support your greyhound through the fireworks!

Scenario

For many dogs (not just greyhounds), fireworks are terrifying. What are those big loud and flashing explosions in the sky? Dogs have super sensitive ears – studies show where humans can only hear up to about 20,000 Hertz, dogs can hear up to 65,000. They can pinpoint sounds over four times further away than we can. Therefore, it should come as no surprise, that many dogs fear fireworks and have a panic response to the noise. Many dogs also react similarly to thunder and lightning.

Action

Signs of panic or fear in your greyhound include (but are not limited to) panting, shaking, drooling, pacing, crying, and refusing to settle. Some of these signs are comorbid with more serious concerns, but on New Year’s Eve, the culprit is very often fireworks.

Dogs who fear fireworks or thunder will often try to escape the stimuli – often jumping fences, breaking through gates, and slipping out gaps in our houses. It can be very scary for both dog and owner, and it is so important to know the best ways to prevent this.

Prevention

If you notice your greyhound fears fireworks or thunder, some effortless steps can be taken to help them relax. Start by limiting the exposure – close doors and windows to the sound and keep your greyhound inside with you. Some hounds respond well to soft music or ambient sounds being played. Make sure they have plenty of access to water and offer them small easy to chew treats. Make sure you do not smother them with love if they do not want it - some dogs prefer some space. Keep your energy calm and relaxed, as they will notice your anxieties too. Some dogs also respond well to ‘Thunder Shirts’ or compression – chat to your vet about your options here. In some rare cases of extreme fear, topical anti-anxiety medication can be prescribed – this is also something to talk to your vet about.

If you are not home with your hound when the big bangs happen, the best thing you can do is make sure they are secure. Keep them indoors, or if they do have outside access while you are out, make sure all your fences and gates are extra secure, and they are wearing some identification on them just in case they were to make a great escape. You can pre-emptively put on that calming music, too. Consider a dog sitter if you know your hound fears such sounds or get someone to check on them if you cannot.