Which Dog Breeds Fear Fireworks the Most? A Study Reveals Some Surprising Answers
As the 4th of July nears, millions of Americans prep for BBQs, beach days, and—of course—fireworks. But while we humans ooh and ahh at the sparkling sky, for many dogs, the experience is downright terrifying. In fact, fireworks top the list of the most fear-inducing sounds for our canine companions. But not all breeds react the same—and now, we’ve got the data to prove it.
In a comprehensive study led by Linn Mari Storengen and Frode Lingaas and published in Applied Animal Behaviour Science, over 5,000 dog owners in Norway were surveyed to uncover which breeds are most—and least—sensitive to noises like fireworks, gunshots, thunderstorms, and heavy traffic. (You can view the full abstract here: ScienceDirect)
The top takeaway? Fireworks were the most common trigger, with 21% of dogs showing strong or very strong fear reactions. The researchers also found that noise sensitivity is more common in older dogs, in females, and in neutered dogs—all important considerations when planning for a safe holiday.
But let’s talk breeds. Some pups are practically born with nerves of steel, while others are… well, let’s just say they’d rather hide under the bed until the 5th.
Most Likely to Cower:
The breeds most affected by fireworks were:
- Norwegian Buhund
- Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
- Lagotto Romagnolo
These dogs had the highest rates of fear across the board. Why? Genetics likely play a major role. Researchers suggest some breeds may have inherited a stronger sensitivity to noise—meaning no amount of exposure will “toughen them up.” These breeds may need extra help come fireworks season, whether it’s calming treats, white noise machines, or a snug anxiety wrap.
Least Likely to Flinch:
On the flip side, these cool customers barely bat an eyelash:
- Boxer
- Chinese Crested
- Great Dane
That’s right—despite their big, boisterous appearance, Boxers and Danes are among the least likely to freak out over loud noises. Chinese Cresteds may be small, but they’re apparently packing serious emotional armor when it comes to sonic booms.
Interestingly, dogs who were most fearful of fireworks were also more likely to show separation anxiety, fear of new situations, and longer recovery times after stress—indicating that noise sensitivity is often just one piece of a broader anxiety puzzle.
Before you head into the holiday festivities, take a moment to check in on your dog. If you know your pup is sensitive—or fits the profile—it’s best to skip the fireworks show and opt for a cozy night in.
Fireworks are beautiful for us—but for many dogs, they’re the literal stuff of nightmares.
🎇🐾 Stay safe out there, and give your dogs a little extra love this Independence Day.
