As the nights draw in and the air turns crisp, autumn brings a host of exciting events for us humans — but for our dogs, October can be a surprisingly stressful time. From spooky costumes and trick-or-treaters to early fireworks and bustling local fairs, autumn’s sights and sounds can feel overwhelming to a canine’s sensitive senses.

Whether you live near Alton Towers’ Scarefest, enjoy local autumn fairs, or simply walk your dog on darker evenings, it’s worth taking some proactive steps to help your furry friend feel safe and relaxed.

Why October & November Can Be Stressful for Dogs

• Unfamiliar costumes — Strange silhouettes, masks and face paint can confuse and frighten dogs who rely heavily on visual cues.
• Late-night noise — Parties, increased foot traffic and visitors at the door disrupt their sense of routine and security.
• Early fireworks — Private fireworks often start weeks before Bonfire Night, with unpredictable bangs and flashes.
• Darker evenings — Reduced visibility and shifting walk times can heighten anxiety and lower confidence outdoors.

Left unaddressed, these changes can lead to barking, hiding, restlessness, loss of appetite, or destructive behaviour.

6 Ways to Prepare Your Dog for Autumn’s Noisy Nights

1) Start Treating Your Dog Early — Begin with Calming Treats

Kick off your preparation by introducing our Calming Wellness Dog Treats. These stress-melting botanical powerhouses deliver support from the inside out:

• Lavender (50 mg/kg) — olfactory relaxation magic to naturally soothe the nervous system.
• Chamomile (50 mg/kg) — nature’s anxiety eraser, long used to ease restlessness.

🧊 Total Tranquility Support:

• Naturally calms nerves
• Soothes anxious behaviours
• Supports digestive comfort (because stress can upset stomachs)
• Grain-free formula for sensitive pups

Feeding them regularly in the days leading up to Halloween and Bonfire Night helps your dog build a calmer baseline before the noise begins. Think of it as training their nervous system to “stay cool” during peak stress.

2) Begin Gentle Noise Desensitisation

In the weeks before Halloween, play low-volume recordings of fireworks or bonfire sounds for short periods. Reward calm behaviour. Gradually increase the volume over time. This helps your dog learn that these noises are not threatening, building resilience before the real thing.

3) Gradually Expose Them to Low-Level Background Noise

Mix in everyday sounds like the radio or TV during the day. Gentle background noise acts as a buffer when unexpected bangs happen outside and prevents “startle” responses from total silence.

4) Reinforce Their “Safe Place”

Create a den, crate or cosy corner with their favourite blanket and toys. Dim lighting and cover sides if needed. Reward them for using it so it becomes a trusted retreat when things get loud — a canine panic room where they feel secure.

5) Keep Routines Consistent

Stick to regular feeding and walking times where possible. Predictability gives your dog a sense of control and reduces anxiety hormones. If you need to walk earlier to avoid fireworks, try to do so at the same time each evening.

6) Monitor Local Event Schedules

Check your council or local venues for event dates — such as Alton Towers’ Scarefest fireworks nights, school bonfire displays or community fairs — so you can plan walks or calming strategies in advance. Knowing when loud events will happen makes it easier to prepare both yourself and your dog.

A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way

By starting now — before the big nights arrive — you can help your dog build resilience and reduce anxiety. Gentle exposure, a safe retreat, consistent routines and supportive treats all work together to make autumn a calmer, happier season for both of you.

Helping Your Dog Stay Calm During Halloween and Autumn Events

A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way

By starting now — before the big nights arrive — you can help your dog build resilience and reduce anxiety. Gentle exposure, a safe retreat, consistent routines and supportive treats all work together to make autumn a calmer, happier season for both of you.

Calming Wellness Dog Treats

Stress-melting botanical powerhouses with Lavender & Chamomile.

£5.99 GBP

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