Fireworks, Thunder & Vacuums — Oh My! Helping Your Puppy Feel Confident Around Loud Sounds

by Amy Jensen

Bringing home a new puppy is full of joyful moments—playtime, cuddles, and learning together. But what happens when your puppy hears a loud noise and suddenly tucks their tail, hides under the table, or barks in fear?

Whether it’s the rumble of thunder, the crack of fireworks, or even the hum of a vacuum cleaner, many puppies experience sound sensitivity. The good news? You can help! With the right approach, you can teach your puppy to feel safe and confident—even when life gets noisy.

Why Puppies React to Sound

Puppies are going through huge developmental changes in their first year. They experience critical fear periods, where sudden or unfamiliar things—like loud sounds—can seem frightening.

It’s also important to remember that every dog is different. Some puppies are naturally cautious, while others are bold. But even the most confident pups benefit from gradual, positive exposure to everyday noises.

If we don’t take time to teach them how to feel safe, those early negative reactions can grow into long-term fears. So let’s walk through how to prevent that and help your puppy thrive.

How to Introduce Your Puppy to New Sounds

Let’s use a common household item—the vacuum cleaner—as an example. Many puppies find it scary at first! Here’s how to help:

1. Start With the Vacuum Turned Off

Set it in the middle of the room like any other piece of furniture. Let your puppy explore it at their own pace. Toss treats nearby. No pressure!

2. Move It Gently

Slide the vacuum a little bit while feeding treats. The goal: vacuum moves = something good happens.

3. Introduce the Sound Slowly

Have a helper turn the vacuum on briefly in another room while you feed treats. Keep sessions short and fun.

4. Build Up Over Time

Gradually bring your puppy closer as they get used to the sound. Be patient—don’t rush!

5. Incorporate into Routine

Eventually, vacuum while your puppy relaxes with a stuffed toy like a Freezbone (filled with frozen soft food or peanut butter). This creates a positive association with the sound.

Fireworks, Thunderstorms & Sirens

Sounds like fireworks and thunder are unpredictable and often very loud—making them extra scary for young dogs.

Prepare with These Tips:

• Play sound recordings of fireworks or storms at low volume while your puppy plays or eats.

• Pair the sounds with high-value treats or play sessions.

• Increase volume gradually over several sessions.

• Create a safe zone—a crate, cozy bed, or quiet room they can retreat to when needed.

Leave Your Puppy Home from Fireworks Events—for Now

We know it’s tempting to bring your pup to every summer celebration. But for events with fireworks, it’s best to leave your puppy at home. Here’s why:

• Fireworks can trigger a panic response.

• Crowds and overstimulation make it harder for your puppy to feel safe.

• A frightening first experience can lead to long-term fear of loud noises or even public outings.

Instead, set your puppy up for success at home:

• Use white noise or calming music

• Offer a frozen Freezbone or Kong

• Keep windows and curtains closed

• Provide familiar smells (like your shirt!)

• Have someone check in or stay home if possible

Your puppy will benefit far more from a calm, predictable evening than a chaotic celebration.

Final Tips for Raising a Sound-Confident Puppy

• Start sound desensitization early

• Watch body language—go at your puppy’s pace

• Use treats, toys, and praise to build positive associations

• Never force your puppy to confront something scary

• Comfort is okay! Reassurance won’t reinforce fear

You’re Building a Brave Dog—One Sound at a Time

Every experience your puppy has teaches them what to expect from the world. If you take the time to build trust and introduce new things gently, your puppy will grow into a calm, confident adult dog.

And remember—confidence isn’t created in chaos. It’s created in quiet, safe, consistent moments. So skip the fireworks for now, and give your pup the best chance to succeed.

Want More Help?

We offer resources to support you every step of the way, including:

• Weekly live Q&A sessions

• Courses and classes taught live via Zoom and available on demand

• A free class on Intro to Puppy Training

• Charts & Printables

• The Puppy Training Podcast

👉 Visit baxterandbella.com/learn-more to get started!